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There are 2 kinds of women a man can marry. The kind that's stronger than he is, and the kind that's weaker. I've lived with both, Charlie. It's hard to live with a strong woman, because she can make you afraid sometimes, and sometimes you feel like you aren't in control of your life. But let me tell you, boy, it's a damn sight better than living with a weak woman, because many a man isn't as good as his woman, but I never knew a husband who was better than his wife

Orson Scott Card#804

RelationshipsPowerMarriageStrengthGender

About this quote

What does it mean?
Marrying a strong woman may be hard but is better than marrying a weak one.
In plain terms
Strong wives challenge control but are ultimately better partners.
What can you take from it?
Choose a partner who challenges you.

Where it applies

  • marriage advice
  • family dynamics
  • gender roles

Putting it to work

  • seek equality
  • avoid control

Questions to consider

  • What makes a partner good?
  • How do you feel in control?

Another view

This relies on gender stereotypes about weak women.

More from Orson Scott Card

  1. My aim is not to corrupt the weak, but to exalt the strong

    Permalink to quote #803
  2. I hate you for knowing my heart and using it against me

    Permalink to quote #805
  3. Afraid because his eyes still looked at her and said, mine, and because somewhere in her was something that answered, impossibly, yours

    Permalink to quote #802

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