“Woman begins by resisting a man’s advances and ends by blocking his retreat.”
- October 16, 1854 – November 30, 1900
- Irish
- Author, poet, playwright
- Written novels, plays, and poems such as “The Picture of Dorian Gray,” “The Importance of Being Earnest,” and “Salome,” he had a great influence on British literature in the late 19th century through his witty social criticism and humor.
Quote
“Woman begins by resisting a man’s advances and ends by blocking his retreat.”
Explanation
In this quote, Oscar Wilde humorously critiques the dynamics of romantic relationships, suggesting that women, in his view, often engage in a pattern where they initially resist a man’s advances, only to later prevent his departure once they have captured his attention. Wilde’s words seem to highlight the complexity and contradictions in the interactions between men and women, where desire and pursuit can shift over time. He plays with the idea that romantic relationships often involve push-and-pull dynamics, where the roles of attraction and resistance are fluid and subject to change.
Wilde’s sharp observation reflects his broader critiques of society’s expectations and gender roles, particularly around courtship and love. His wit underscores the playfulness and complexity of human relationships, suggesting that while society often views these roles in a linear or predictable way (man pursuing, woman resisting), the reality is much more nuanced and subject to change. He implies that both men and women are participants in these shifting dynamics, and that the idealized or prescribed roles don’t always reflect the reality of romantic engagement.
In modern contexts, this quote can be seen as a commentary on gender roles and the often unspoken expectations in romantic relationships. It highlights the fluidity of emotions and actions in love, where advances and resistance are not always straightforward. Wilde’s words remind us that romantic dynamics are rarely simple and often involve elements of power, control, and negotiation that can evolve over time.
