Cleverness Quote by Margaret Atwood
“Cleverness is a quality a man likes to have in his wife as long as she is some distance away from him. Up close, he'll take kindness any day of the week, if there's nothing more alluring to be had.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Handmaid’s Tale, 1985
Suggests that proximity changes perception of a partner’s traits, valuing kindness over cleverness when close
In simple terms: Close proximity favors kindness over cleverness
Key Takeaway
Appreciate kindness in close relationships
Themes
relationships
perception
values
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
observational
When to use this quote
- marriage counseling
- friendship dynamics
- workplace collaborations
Key Concepts
Psychology of attraction
distance effect
gender expectations
Questions to Reflect On
- How does distance affect attraction?
- When should cleverness be prioritized?
A Different Perspective
Not all partners value the same traits equally
