Meaning: This quote by Simone de Beauvoir, a French writer, philosopher, and feminist, reflects on the arbitrary nature of human connections and relationships. In this quote, she ponders the seemingly random circumstances that lead to individuals forming lifelong connections with certain people. The quote suggests that the people we become involved with and form relationships with are often the result of chance encounters and timing rather than any predetermined or rational choice.

Simone de Beauvoir was a prominent existentialist philosopher, and her work often explored themes of freedom, choice, and the individual's responsibility in creating their own meaning in life. In this quote, she raises questions about the role of chance and coincidence in shaping human relationships, challenging the notion that our connections with others are always the result of conscious decision-making.

The phrase "Why one man rather than another? It was odd" captures the sense of bewilderment and curiosity that de Beauvoir experiences when considering the unpredictable nature of human connections. She suggests that the individuals we form deep and lasting relationships with are often determined by arbitrary factors, such as being in the right place at the right time or meeting someone during a formative period of our lives.

The mention of meeting someone when one is nineteen alludes to the formative impact of early experiences on shaping our future relationships. De Beauvoir seems to suggest that the people we encounter during our youth, when we are still in the process of defining ourselves and our values, can have a lasting influence on the course of our lives. This idea aligns with existentialist themes of personal freedom and the significance of individual experiences in shaping one's existence.

Furthermore, the quote invites contemplation on the role of chance and choice in shaping our relationships. It raises the question of whether our connections with others are truly based on a rational and deliberate selection process, or if they are more often the result of unforeseen circumstances and coincidences. De Beauvoir's existentialist philosophy often emphasized the importance of individual agency and the need to take responsibility for one's choices, yet this quote suggests that the formation of relationships may not always align with these ideals.

In her broader body of work, Simone de Beauvoir also delved into the complexities of romantic relationships, the nature of love, and the ways in which societal expectations and norms influence human connections. This quote can be seen as a reflection of her philosophical exploration of the intricacies of human relationships and the often unpredictable forces that shape them.

Overall, Simone de Beauvoir's quote encapsulates a thought-provoking meditation on the arbitrary nature of human connections and the role of chance in shaping our relationships. It invites contemplation on the influence of timing, coincidence, and formative experiences in the people we become involved with, challenging assumptions about the rationality and deliberateness of our relationship choices. In doing so, the quote reflects the existentialist themes that permeate de Beauvoir's philosophical and literary work, prompting readers to consider the complex interplay of freedom, choice, and chance in the realm of human relationships.