"The majority of husbands remind me of an orangutan trying to play the violin"
- Honore de Balzac
About this Quote
In this quote, Honore de Balzac is using a humorous contrast to communicate his opinion on husbands. He likens them to an orangutan, a large and awkward primate, trying to play the fragile and complicated instrument of a violin. This comparison recommends that other halves often do not have the skill and grace needed to navigate the complexities of marriage and relationships. They might be well-intentioned, however their efforts often stumble upon as awkward and comical. Balzac's usage of this example also indicates that husbands may struggle to comprehend and satisfy their functions as partners, similar to an orangutan would have a hard time to master the art of playing the violin. In general, this quote highlights the obstacles and shortcomings of spouses in an easy going and amusing method.
"It is paradoxical that many educators and parents still differentiate between a time for learning and a time for play without seeing the vital connection between them"