The quote from "Youth in Revolt" highlights a perspective on male behavior related to relationships and competition. It suggests that men generally view romantic partnerships as something to be guarded, reinforcing the notion of loyalty and jealousy among males. This instinctual drive is depicted as a competitive nature that influences how men relate to each other and to their romantic interests.
Furthermore, the comment about wars serves as a metaphor for the underlying instincts that shape human behavior, indicating that competition is a natural response to maintain balance in society. The author implies that such dynamics are not only prevalent in romantic contexts but extend into broader social interactions, emphasizing the primal instincts that drive human conflict and relationships.