Simone de Beauvoir
The Quote in Other Words
Capturing a spouse requires skill, but maintaining the relationship is a task.
Explanation of the Quote
The quote “To catch a husband is an art, to hold him is a job” highlights the difference between the initial pursuit of a romantic partner and the ongoing effort required to maintain a successful relationship. The first part of the quote suggests that attracting a partner requires skill and strategy, much like an artist carefully crafting a masterpiece. However, the second part of the quote emphasizes that the work doesn’t end once the relationship is established. Holding onto a partner requires ongoing effort, communication, and compromise. It’s not enough to simply “catch” someone; a successful relationship requires ongoing investment and dedication. Ultimately, this quote reminds us that relationships are not static, but rather require ongoing effort and attention to thrive.