Asked Quote by Erich Segal
“But what does he do to qualify as a sonovabitch?” Jenny asked. “Make me”, I replied. “Beg pardon?” “Make me”, I repeated. Her eyes widened like saucers. “You mean like incest?” she asked. “Don’t give me your family problems, Jen. I have enough of my own.” “Like what, Oliver?” she asked, “like just what is it he makes you do?” “The ‘right things’”, I said. “What’s wrong with the ‘right things’?” she asked, delighting in the apparent paradox.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Love Story by Erich Segal, 1970
A character resists being reduced to a label, emphasizing personal agency over family expectations.
In simple terms: People should define themselves, not be defined by others.
Assert your own identity.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- family gatherings
- self‑reflection
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you maintain autonomy in close relationships?
- What boundaries protect your identity?
Family expectations can limit personal growth.