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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…” quote by Katie Kitamura
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““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.””

Katie Kitamura

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.

Key Takeaway

Invest in mutual respect and effort.

Themes

family marriage commitment

Mood

thoughtful hopeful

Type

philosophical advice

When to use this quote

  • marriage counseling
  • parent‑child relationships
  • long‑term partnership

Key Concepts

unconditional love earned love

Questions to Reflect On

  • What actions demonstrate love is earned?
  • How can partners keep love alive?
A Different Perspective

Spousal love can feel transactional without genuine connection.

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