Medicine is my lawful wife, and literature is my mistress.
What’s the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This eloquent and evocative quote draws a vivid parallel between two seemingly disparate pursuits: medicine and literature. It offers a unique perspective on the passions and commitments that can drive an individual’s life and creative endeavors.
At its core, this quote reflects the dual nature of the human experience, where individuals often find themselves torn between multiple callings or passions. In this case, the speaker identifies medicine as their “lawful wife” and literature as their “mistress.” This metaphor suggests that medicine is the primary, socially accepted career or commitment, while literature represents a more clandestine and personal pursuit.
The use of “lawful wife” implies a sense of duty and responsibility associated with medicine. It suggests that the speaker is committed to their medical profession as a socially recognized and respected path. This commitment may be seen as a societal expectation or a practical choice to earn a livelihood and contribute to the well-being of others.
On the other hand, describing literature as a “mistress” implies a passionate, hidden, and perhaps illicit relationship with the written word. It suggests that the speaker’s love for literature is intense, personal, and often pursued in secret. This portrayal resonates with the idea that creative endeavors, like writing, often serve as outlets for personal expression and self-discovery.
The quote also delves into the tension between practicality and creativity, a struggle many artists and professionals face. The speaker’s acknowledgment of both medicine and literature in their life highlights the complexity of balancing societal expectations and personal passions. It prompts contemplation on the roles we play in our public and private lives and the sacrifices we make in pursuing our true passions.
Ultimately, “Medicine is my lawful wife, and literature is my mistress” encapsulates the multifaceted nature of human existence, where individuals grapple with fulfilling societal roles and nurturing personal creative or intellectual pursuits. It invites us to reflect on the different facets of our own lives, the roles we play, and the passions that drive us, encouraging a deeper exploration of the complex interplay between duty and personal fulfillment.
Who said the quote?
The quote “Medicine is my lawful wife, and literature is my mistress.” is often attributed to Anton Chekhov (Bio / Quotes). Anton Chekhov was a Russian playwright and short story writer, known for his realistic depictions of Russian life and society.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an impact-driven creator at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 life goals around the globe. Tal's journey and recent book, The Art of Fully Living, inspired him to found Elevate Society.
