Shaw's relations with women have always been gallant, coy even. The number he has surrendered to physically have been few - perhaps not half a dozen in all - the first man to have cut a path through the theatre and left it strewn with virgins.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Shaw maintained a respectful distance from women physically, yet dominated the theatrical world leaving many behind.
- In plain terms
- He was polite to women but stayed mostly celibate while conquering the theater industry.
- What can you take from it?
- Professional dominance does not require personal indulgence.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do you measure a man's impact?
- Does personal restraint enhance professional reputation?
Another view
The metaphor of leaving virgins is hyperbolic and lacks factual support.
More from Frank Harris
Strong men are made by opposition; like kites they go up against the wind.
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