There is nothing more boring for an intelligent woman than to spend endless amounts of time with small children
There is nothing more boring for an intelligent woman than to spend endless amounts of time with small children
Doris Lessing, a renowned British novelist and essayist, was known for her sharp wit and keen observations on society. In her works, she often delved into the complexities of gender roles, relationships, and the struggles of women in a patriarchal world. One of the recurring themes in Lessing's writing was the idea that intelligent women were often stifled by traditional expectations of motherhood and domesticity.Lessing famously said, "There is nothing more boring for an intelligent woman than to spend endless amounts of time with small children." This statement reflects her belief that women should not be confined to the role of caregiver and homemaker, but should be free to pursue their intellectual interests and ambitions. Lessing herself was a mother of three children, but she was also a prolific writer who continued to produce groundbreaking work throughout her life.
For Lessing, the idea of spending all day with small children was not only boring, but also limiting. She believed that women had the capacity for so much more than just tending to the needs of their families. In her novel "The Golden Notebook," Lessing explores the struggles of a woman who grapples with the conflicting demands of motherhood and her own creative aspirations. The protagonist, Anna Wulf, is torn between her desire to be a good mother and her need for intellectual stimulation and independence.
Lessing's views on motherhood and childcare were radical for her time, but they continue to resonate with many women today. In a society that often devalues the contributions of women outside the home, Lessing's words serve as a reminder that women are capable of so much more than just nurturing others. Intelligent women, she believed, should be free to pursue their passions and make their mark on the world in whatever way they choose.