Marriage. That's what he called it, though men like Paul do not marry women. They own them. They control them. They are voracious gluttons who devour every part of a woman, then clean their teeth with the bones.
This striking quote offers a powerful critique of the traditional notions of marriage and the underlying power dynamics at play. It challenges the romanticized view of marriage by framing it as a domain of domination rather than partnership. The imagery used—referencing men like Paul as possessors who 'own' women—underscores the imbalance and control that can exist within such relationships. The depiction of these men as 'voracious gluttons' who 'devour' and then discard women reflects a disturbing, predatory attitude, suggesting that women are consumables within this context. It evokes a sense of aggression and exploitation, highlighting how marriage for some becomes an act of control rather than care. This perspective aligns with feminist critiques that illustrate how patriarchal institutions often entrench inequalities, reducing women to objects for possession or gratification. It prompts reflection on societal constructs that have historically justified or overlooked such dynamics, questioning whether these relationships can truly be consensual or healthy under such conditions. Interestingly, the quote also hints at the dehumanization of women—described as entities to be devoured and discarded—thus confronting us with uncomfortable truths about the nature of power and ownership in human relationships. Ultimately, it serves as a stark reminder to examine the social and cultural frameworks that perpetuate gender oppression, and to consider whether genuine equality can exist in environments where dominion and possession are normalized.
