The chief thing about a woman -- who is much of a woman -- is that in the long run she is not to be had... She is not to be caught by any of the catch-words, love, beauty, honor, duty, worth, work, salvation -- none of them -- not in the long run. In the long run she only says Am I satisfied, or is there some beastly dissatisfaction gnawing and gnawing inside me. And if there is some dissatisfaction, it is physical, at least as much as psychic, sex as much as soul.

Summary

This quote suggests that a woman, who possesses true femininity, cannot be easily understood or defined by societal expectations or concepts like love, beauty, honor, or duty. The essence of a woman goes beyond these labels. Ultimately, her primary concern is her own satisfaction, and any dissatisfaction she feels stems from both physical and psychological aspects, including sexual desires and the innermost depths of her being. This quote emphasizes the complexity and individuality of women, challenging conventional notions and urging a deeper understanding of their needs and desires.

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