A woman is a provocation before marriage and a gendarme afterward. – Henry Louis Mencken
A woman is a provocation before marriage and a gendarme afterward. – Henry Louis Mencken
Henry Louis Mencken's quote, "A woman is a provocation before marriage and a gendarme afterward," reflects a cynical view on the changing dynamics of relationships, particularly in the context of marriage. Before marriage, a woman is seen as an enticing and captivating figure who stirs desire and excitement. However, after marriage, the perception shifts, suggesting that she assumes a role of authority or control, like a "gendarme," which is a term for a police officer. This may imply that in the confines of marriage, women are perceived to take on a more regulatory role, overseeing and managing domestic life and behavior. Overall, the quote highlights the complexities and contradictions in societal views of gender roles and relationships over time.
Quote By: Henry Louis Mencken