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Ex wife Quote by Lionel Shriver

“And of course Brian was far more upset about separation from those two blond moppets than about leaving Louise. There shouldn't be any problem loving both, but for some reason certain men choose; like good mutual-fund managers minimizing risk while maximizing portfolio yield, they take everything…” quote by Lionel Shriver
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““And of course Brian was far more upset about separation from those two blond moppets than about leaving Louise. There shouldn't be any problem loving both, but for some reason certain men choose; like good mutual-fund managers minimizing risk while maximizing portfolio yield, they take everything they once invested in their wives and sink it into their children instead. What is it? Do they seem safer, because they need you? Because you can never become their ex-father, as I think I might become your ex-wife?””

Lionel Shriver

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Plot Against America, 2004

He critiques men who invest emotionally in children over spouses, questioning safety and identity.

In simple terms: Men may prioritize children over wives, raising identity concerns.

Key Takeaway

Reflect on balanced emotional investment.

Themes

family roles gender expectations emotional investment

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • marriage counseling
  • parenting decisions
  • life planning

Key Concepts

marriage parenthood identity formation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What motivates shifting emotional focus?
  • How can couples maintain mutual support while parenting?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on one relationship can cause neglect elsewhere.

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