I didn't have a financial need, and I wasn't very gifted at relationships. I probably was more like what we think of boys as being: hard to pin down and wary of commitment.
This quote by Candice Bergen offers a thoughtful reflection on identity and the expectations attached to gender roles, particularly those projected onto boys. It highlights a personal acknowledgment of one's struggles and characteristics in relation to societal stereotypes. Bergen admits to lacking financial need and skills in relationships, which are often seen as pivotal aspects of adult life and personal success. What stands out most is the comparison to the conventional image of boys as elusive and suspicious of commitment, suggesting that her own personality—or perhaps the perception of it—aligns with these traits.
The quote invites us to consider how much of our behavior is influenced or even constrained by cultural expectations. By equating her own nature to a gender stereotype, Bergen subtly challenges the idea that emotional availability or financial capability are strictly gender-bound traits. It opens a door to questioning how societal assumptions can shape individual self-awareness and behavior. Perhaps she is suggesting an unnoticed commonality between genders once societal labels are peeled away.
Furthermore, the line "hard to pin down and wary of commitment" resonates deeply because these feelings are not exclusive to boys or girls but are universal human experiences. The struggle to connect, open up, or maintain commitments is something many grapple with, regardless of gender. Through this candid admission, Bergen fosters a sense of empathy and understanding, acknowledging human complexity without judgment.
Ultimately, this quote serves as a subtle reminder to look beyond stereotypical boxes, recognize shared vulnerabilities, and appreciate individuality without preconceived notions.