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She respected her husband in the same way as she respected the General Post Office, as something large, secure and fixed: and though she knew the small number of his talents she appreciated his abstract value as a male.
James Joyce
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote highlights a woman's respect for her husband as a stable figure, despite recognizing his limited talents.

In this quote, James Joyce conveys the idea of respect within a marital relationship, comparing the husband's presence to a public institution known for stability and security. The woman's appreciation for her husband is portrayed as detached, acknowledging his value not for his talents but for the role he plays in her life, illustrating a complex dynamic of admiration mixed with recognition of limitations.

Themes

RespectMarriageStabilityRelationshipsValue

In practice

Example use cases

During a wedding speech, one might reference this quote to emphasize the foundation of mutual respect in a successful marriage.

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The movements which work revolutions in the world are born out of the dreams and visions in a peasant's heart on the hillside.
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