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And love Quote by W. Somerset Maugham

“I want a girl because I want to bring her up so that she shan't make the mistakes I've made. When I look back upon the girl I was I hate myself. But I never had a chance. I'm going to bring up my daughter so that she's free and can stand on her own feet. I´m not going to bring a child into the…” quote by W. Somerset Maugham
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“I want a girl because I want to bring her up so that she shan't make the mistakes I've made. When I look back upon the girl I was I hate myself. But I never had a chance. I'm going to bring up my daughter so that she's free and can stand on her own feet. I´m not going to bring a child into the world, and love her, and bring her up, just so that some man may want to sleep with her so much that he's willing to provide her with board and lodging for the rest of her life.”

W. Somerset Maugham

About This Quote

Source Novel: Of Human Bondage, 1915

The speaker wishes to raise a daughter free from his own past mistakes, rejecting using a woman as a means for financial security.

In simple terms: Raise a child independently, not as a financial asset.

Key Takeaway

Focus on nurturing autonomy.

Themes

parenthood self‑reflection gender roles

Mood

reflective determined

Type

advice personal

When to use this quote

  • parenting
  • family planning
  • personal growth

Key Concepts

generational trauma autonomy self‑worth

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you ensure your daughter’s true independence?
  • What personal patterns are you trying to break?
A Different Perspective

It may overlook societal constraints on women's independence.

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