Thread: SWAMBO Revelation

I understand some people taking to task the phrase "She Who Must Be Obeyed". Depending on the circumstance (which we can usually not know) it can be considered demeaning towards the male and unflattering of the female. However, I think it should be considered more in jest unless details to the contrary are given.

That being said, I've always used "She Who Must Be Pleased" because I've tried to live by the motto "Happy Wife, Happy Life". Knowing full well that it takes a good attitude on all occupatents part to make the home life happy.

As for purchases that go on unknown to the spouse. My Wife has long used the "purchase now, hang in the closet for a while, then when it gets worn - if I even ask "Is that new?" the response is always - an almost truthfully "Oh this, I've had it a while.""

Now this has worked for us for over 22 years so why change it now. I've just got a lot of catching up to do.

Zacsdaddy

Hello, Welshwizard:

Thank you for your note.

Yes, Mortimer himself was a barrister, and you can see some of him in Rumpole — and some that he wanted to be. As far as a writer creating a memorable character, Mortimer shines in Rumpole. I love Mortimer's writing in general, but his Rumpole is in a different world.

Also, in the BBC series, Leo McKaren is magnificent as Rumpole. I have always admired his acting. I remember watching the series mesmerized by everything about it. Of course, I knew the stories, since I had read them, and that made the series even more special to me. Leo McKaren and Mortimer were a perfect match in "Rumpole."

Stay well.

Regards,
Obie

Thanks for pointing out the background of the term. I would have thought it would be more contemporary...

Always a pleasure reading your writings.

Great post as always Obie, thanks for sharing! Its good to know where these expressions start...!

I dont know which part to focus on, that after 44 years its possible to have a wife who quitely accepts our "little" purchases, or that even still after 44 yrs a wife can still provoke memories of "She Who Must Be Obeyed"

Great read Obie, thanks.

The first time I heard that phrase G. Gordon Liddy used it.

By the way, I think it's more a term of endearment used to describe
a wife, mother who runs a home, kitchen, laundry, taxi service, cleaning
service and does it efficiently with love and without much complaining.
She deserves respect from her husband, and children.