"Almost all of our relationships begin and most of them continue as forms of mutual exploitation, a mental or physical barter, to be terminated when one or both parties run out of goods"

This quote by W.H. Auden suggests that the majority of our relationships are based upon a form of exchange, where both celebrations are taking something from the other. This could be in the type of physical or psychological bartering, where someone is providing something to the other in exchange for something else. This might be in the type of psychological assistance, physical aid, or even monetary support. The quote implies that these relationships are often short-term, and will end when one or both parties no longer have anything to use. This could be due to a lack of resources, or simply since the relationship has run its course. Ultimately, this quote suggests that the majority of our relationships are based on a type of exploitation, which they will ultimately come to an end.