He's the kind of man a woman would have to marry to get rid of.

The quote by Mae West is a witty remark that showcases her sharp sense of humor and her ability to poke fun at men and marriage. When she says, “He’s the kind of man a woman would have to marry to get rid of,” she flips the usual expectation of marriage as a union of love and partnership. Instead, she suggests that some men are so persistent or troublesome that the only way for a woman to escape them is through marriage itself—a satirical exaggeration that turns the idea of romance on its head.

This line reflects West’s comedic style, where she often challenged traditional gender roles and made bold statements about relationships, sex, and desire. By mocking certain types of men and the institution of marriage, she humorously highlights the frustrations women can face in dealing with overbearing suitors or partners. The joke works because it exaggerates a common social reality while disguising it in playful irony.

The origin of this quote lies in Mae West’s career as an actress, playwright, and cultural icon of the early 20th century. Known for her witty one-liners and unapologetic confidence, she became famous for pushing the boundaries of what women were “allowed” to say about love and sexuality. Lines like this were part of her public persona, blending humor with social commentary to entertain while also empowering women with laughter.

Ultimately, West’s statement is both a joke and a critique. It underscores the idea that not all marriages are founded on love and that sometimes social expectations trap people in ironic situations. By delivering it with her signature humor, she turns a biting observation about men and marriage into a memorable and laughable truth.