I have never wanted a family. I don't believe in marriage, though I obviously believe it should be legal for everyone who wants to do it. But it is not something I believe in, nor do the characters in my book, nor do any of my friends.

In this quote, Hanya Yanagihara, an author best known for her novel A Little Life, reflects on her personal stance regarding family and marriage. She expresses that she has never wanted a family and does not believe in marriage as an institution. Despite this, she clarifies that she supports marriage equality, believing it should be legal for anyone who wishes to marry. Yanagihara’s statement touches on her personal philosophy and the broader societal debate about the role of traditional relationships and family structures in modern life.

Yanagihara's position on marriage and family is grounded in her belief that these institutions may not resonate with everyone, even though they are widely considered fundamental to society. She further notes that her characters in her book and her friends share similar views, suggesting that she does not see these concepts as essential to leading a fulfilling or meaningful life. By making this distinction, she challenges the societal expectation that everyone must aspire to marriage or having children in order to live a complete life.

The origin of this quote stems from Yanagihara's exploration of unconventional lifestyles and relationships, both in her personal life and through her literary work. In A Little Life, her characters often deal with trauma, complex relationships, and the idea of family and belonging, but these themes are handled in a way that subverts traditional expectations of happiness and fulfillment. Yanagihara's own rejection of traditional family structures is reflected in her writing, which often examines alternative forms of intimacy and connection.

Ultimately, Yanagihara’s statement offers a critique of societal norms surrounding marriage and family, encouraging people to question whether these institutions are necessary for everyone or if they are simply culturally prescribed ideals. Her support for marriage equality alongside her personal beliefs reflects a nuanced approach to these issues, recognizing that people should be free to choose their own paths in life without judgment or pressure to conform to traditional roles.