Power Quotes
Everything in the world is about sex except sex. Sex is about power.
"Everything in the world is about sex except sex. Sex is about power."— Oscar Wilde
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Meaning of this quote
The aphorism suggests that apparent motives can conceal struggles for dominance. Its sweeping claim works as provocation rather than a universal account of relationships.
Key takeaway:
Look beyond an apparent motive when assessing a power dynamic.
Origin of the quote
Documented in modern discussion by 1995, including an interview with Michael Cunningham.
Who actually said this?
Likely misattributedQuote Investigator identifies the Wilde credit as apocryphal. Cunningham used the saying while disclaiming authorship; he should not simply replace Wilde as its inventor.
