Whoever, fleeing marriage and the sorrows that women cause, does not wish to wed comes to a deadly old age.

The quote, "Whoever, fleeing marriage and the sorrows that women cause, does not wish to wed comes to a deadly old age," comes from Hesiod, an ancient Greek poet who is best known for his works Theogony and Works and Days. Hesiod lived around the 8th century BCE, and his writings often explore themes of life, morality, and human condition, blending mythological narratives with practical advice. This particular quote reflects a traditional and somewhat patriarchal perspective on marriage, especially in regard to the roles of men and women in ancient Greek society.

In this statement, Hesiod seems to suggest that marriage is an essential part of a man’s life and that avoiding it leads to a lonely, unfulfilled old age. The reference to "the sorrows that women cause" reflects the ancient view that women, by their very nature, were a source of trouble or discontent for men, a perspective commonly found in classical literature. This view, however, is rooted in the gender norms of Hesiod's time, where the roles of women were often seen as secondary to those of men, and their influence was sometimes viewed negatively.

Despite the negative view of women implied in the quote, Hesiod’s message seems to advocate for marriage as a necessary part of a fulfilling life. He implies that those who avoid marriage or commitment will live out their later years in isolation and misery. The idea of "deadly old age" could be interpreted as a metaphor for emotional emptiness or existential loneliness that comes from not having a partner to share life’s experiences and challenges.

Ultimately, Hesiod's quote offers insight into the societal expectations of his time, where marriage was considered not just a personal choice but a societal obligation. While the quote is a reflection of ancient beliefs about gender roles and marriage, it also highlights the importance placed on companionship and the idea that relationships, despite their challenges, are a crucial part of a meaningful and fulfilled life.