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Friendship Quote by Oscar Wilde

“Between men and women there is no friendship possible. There is passion, enmity, worship, love, but no friendship.” quote by Oscar Wilde
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“Between men and women there is no friendship possible. There is passion, enmity, worship, love, but no friendship.”

Oscar Wilde

About This Quote

Source Play: An Ideal Husband, Oscar Wilde, 1895

Wilde suggests that gender dynamics prevent pure friendship, reducing relationships to passion, rivalry, or reverence.

In simple terms: He claims men and women cannot be just friends.

Key Takeaway

Question societal expectations about cross‑gender friendships.

Themes

gender relationships society

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical social

When to use this quote

  • workplace
  • social circles
  • romantic contexts
  • cultural analysis

Key Concepts

social constructs emotional intimacy

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you know friendships that defy this view?
  • How do cultural norms shape gender interactions?
A Different Perspective

Friendship can exist across genders despite stereotypes.

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