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Age Quote by James Joyce

“I think a child should be allowed to take his father's or mother's name at will on coming of age. Paternity is a legal fiction.” quote by James Joyce
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“I think a child should be allowed to take his father's or mother's name at will on coming of age. Paternity is a legal fiction.”

James Joyce

About This Quote

Source Novel: A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, 1916

Advocates personal freedom to choose a surname, challenging traditional paternal naming conventions.

In simple terms: Choose your own name freely.

Key Takeaway

Embrace autonomy in identity.

Themes

identity freedom tradition family gender

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • coming of age
  • legal name change
  • family discussions
  • gender equality debates

Key Concepts

self‑determination legal fiction cultural norms

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does a name shape personal identity?
  • What barriers exist to changing surnames?
A Different Perspective

Legal systems may resist changes to naming laws.

2.3 out of 5 (10 ratings)

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