Shake Hands Quote by Rita Mae Brown
““I'd never seen men hold each other. I thought the only things they were allowed to do was shake hands or fight.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Rubyfruit Jungle, 1973
The narrator observes that men historically only engage in handshakes or fights, never in mutual embrace.
In simple terms: Men historically limited to handshakes or fights, not embraces.
Key Takeaway
Recognize limited expressions of male intimacy.
Themes
gender
social norms
intimacy
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
social
cultural
When to use this quote
- friendship dynamics
- conflict resolution
- social expectations
Key Concepts
masculinity
emotional expression
Questions to Reflect On
- What barriers prevent men from embracing?
- How can society expand male intimacy?
A Different Perspective
Cultural shifts now allow broader male emotional expression.
