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Common Quote by Ella Wheeler Wilcox

“It is a common fate -- a woman's lot -- To waste on one the riches of her soul, Who takes the wealth she gives him, but cannot Repay the interest, and much less the whole.” quote by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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“It is a common fate -- a woman's lot -- To waste on one the riches of her soul, Who takes the wealth she gives him, but cannot Repay the interest, and much less the whole.”

Ella Wheeler Wilcox

About This Quote

Source Poem: “The Riches of the Soul” (published 1885)

A woman’s emotional generosity is often exploited, leaving her unreciprocated and indebted.

In simple terms: Women give love, but rarely receive equal return.

Key Takeaway

Seek mutual respect and balance in relationships.

Themes

gender dynamics exploitation emotional labor reciprocity

Mood

thoughtful empathetic

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • marriage
  • friendships
  • workplace mentorship
  • family ties

Key Concepts

feminist theory psychology social contract

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you recognize and address emotional imbalance?
  • What boundaries protect your emotional wealth?
A Different Perspective

Assumes all women experience this uniformly.

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