Children Quote by Katie Kitamura
““Yes, it is the most important love, the love of the mother is a given, it is taken for granted. A child is born and for the rest of his or her life the mother will love the child, without the child doing anything in particular to earn it. But the love of a wife has to be earned, to be won in the first place and then kept.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: “The Lost Daughter” by Elena Ferrante, 2007
Maternal love is unconditional, while spousal love requires effort, earning, and maintenance.
In simple terms: Mother’s love is given; a partner’s love must be earned.
Invest in mutual respect and effort.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- marriage counseling
- parent‑child relationships
- long‑term partnership
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What actions demonstrate love is earned?
- How can partners keep love alive?
Spousal love can feel transactional without genuine connection.