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About this quote

What does it mean?
When a man meets a woman's expectations, she undervalues him; he should act unexpectedly and speak incomprehensibly.
In plain terms
Meeting expectations leads to undervaluation; surprise and mystery are preferable.
What can you take from it?
Avoid predictability in relationships.

Where it applies

  • dating advice
  • marital counseling

Putting it to work

  • be authentic, not performative

Questions to consider

  • Is authenticity more important than surprise?
  • How can honest communication improve relationships?

Another view

Promotes manipulation and misunderstanding.

More from Oscar Wilde

  1. No gentleman ever has any money.

    Permalink to quote #161
  2. I never travel without my diary. One should always have something sensational to read in the train.

    Permalink to quote #163
  3. Mothers, of course, are all right. They pay a chap's bills and don't bother him. But fathers bother a chap and never pay his bills.

    Permalink to quote #160

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