The Problem of Marital Loneliness
The article discusses the theme of marital loneliness, particularly in the context of the new adaptation of Ingmar Bergman's 'Scenes from a Marriage.' It highlights the disconnect that can exist between partners, even in seemingly functional relationships. The author reflects on personal experiences of communication struggles and the deeper implications of loneliness within marriage.
- ▪The author describes a lack of complementarity in conversations with her husband, leading to feelings of sadness and loneliness.
- ▪Ingmar Bergman's original 'Scenes from a Marriage' explores the complexities of marital loneliness through the experiences of a couple.
- ▪The article emphasizes that loneliness can be felt even in the presence of a partner, highlighting the emotional distance that can exist in relationships.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Cultural CommentThe Problem of Marital LonelinessThe new “Scenes from a Marriage,” on HBO, avoids the dark questions that Ingmar Bergman confronted in the original.By Agnes CallardSeptember 25, 2021Illustration by Sun BaiSave this storySave this storySave this storySave this storyMy husband is really into geometry, and once he’s mastered a complicated proof he likes to go through it with me in exacting detail. If he sees my eyes wandering, he commands me to pay attention. In general, the kinds of conversations he enjoys are the ones in which he expounds his latest cognitive treasure, be it scientific, historical, or some fine point about how to interpret an obscure ancient text.I, on the other hand, gravitate toward paradoxes, and enjoy conversations in which I am the one who sets the…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The New Yorker.
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