In Alice Munro's "Lives of Girls and Women," the author emphasizes the importance of maintaining one’s autonomy and clarity of thought, particularly in the context of relationships with men. She warns against allowing distractions to cloud judgment, suggesting that focusing too much on a romantic partner can lead to losing control over one's own life.

Munro's message highlights the societal pressure women often face, where they may inadvertently take on burdens and responsibilities that detract from their personal goals and aspirations. She encourages women to think critically and prioritize their own identity and independence, rather than being swayed or defined by their relationships.