We drove to the hotel and said goodbye. How hypocritical to go upstairs with a man you don't want to fuck, leave the one you do sitting there alone, and then, in a state of great excitement, fuck the one you don't want to fuck while pretending he's the one you do. That's called fidelity. That's called monogamy. That's called civilization and its discontents.
In this passage, the author reflects on the complexity of human relationships and the conflicting emotions involved in fidelity and desire. She portrays a scenario where one hides their true feelings, engaging with someone they do not genuinely care for while leaving behind someone they truly desire. This dynamic raises questions about the nature of loyalty and attraction.
Jong's commentary suggests that such behavior, while seemingly contradictory, is part of the broader societal constructs of monogamy and commitment. It critiques the traditional views on fidelity by highlighting the internal struggles individuals face, pointing out the ironic expectations placed on relationships within civilized society.