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Children Quote by John Irving

“The arrangements that couples make in order to maintain civility in the midst of their journey to divorce are often most elaborate when the professed top priority is to protect a child.” quote by John Irving
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“The arrangements that couples make in order to maintain civility in the midst of their journey to divorce are often most elaborate when the professed top priority is to protect a child.”

John Irving

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Cider House Rules by John Irving, 1985

People often create complex arrangements to keep peace during divorce, especially when a child’s welfare is the stated priority.

In simple terms: Divorce arrangements become elaborate to protect children.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize honest communication over elaborate schemes.

Themes

family divorce children conflict resolution

Mood

reflective concerned

Type

advice analytical

When to use this quote

  • custody negotiations
  • co‑parenting discussions
  • mediated settlements

Key Concepts

ethical compromise parental responsibility emotional labor

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can parents balance child protection with personal honesty?
  • What alternatives exist to overly elaborate agreements?
A Different Perspective

Complex arrangements can mask underlying tensions and hinder genuine resolution.

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