Democracy divides people into workers and loafers. It makes no provision for those who have no time to work.
Karl KrausRead
Matrimony is the union of meanness and martyrdom.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Matrimony can often involve self-sacrifice and a lack of generosity.
Karl Kraus' quote suggests that marriage is a complex institution where one may experience both the cruelty of selfishness and the struggle of selflessness. It points to the dichotomy often found in romantic relationships, where partners can embody both the traits of being mean or selfish as well as those of being a martyr, giving up personal desires for the sake of the relationship or their partner. This commentary highlights the challenges and contradictions of enduring love and commitment.
Themes
MatrimonyRelationshipsSacrificeSelfishnessLove
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about the complexities of marriage at a wedding reception.
More from Karl Kraus
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War: first, one hopes to win; then one expects the enemy to lose; then, one is satisfied that he too is suffering; in the end, one is surprised that everyone has lost.
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Stupidity is an elemental force for which no earthquake is a match.
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Experiences are savings which a miser puts aside. Wisdom is an inheritance which a wastrel cannot exhaust.
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Sexuality poorly repressed unsettles some families; well repressed, it unsettles the whole world.
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