The Meanest Thing Your Partner Ever Asked You To Do?

Relationships can be a minefield of unspoken expectations and occasional harsh words. Often, during heated arguments, partners might utter phrases they later regret. However, some demands cut deeper, revealing intentions that are not regretted even in hindsight.

Examples cited include requests like losing ten kilograms, hosting an unexpected dinner for colleagues, delivering a eulogy for a distant relative, or suppressing emotional reactions in public. These demands can provoke outrage, confusion, or disbelief, leading to significant conflict or, conversely, compliance to avoid confrontation.

Die Zeit is seeking to collect these stories from its readers. The publication wants to hear about the absurd, witty, mean, and audacious requests partners have made. Readers are encouraged to share the specifics of what was demanded, the context, the tone, their reaction, whether they complied, and the impact on the relationship.

Selected contributions will be published after consultation with the individuals involved. This initiative aims to shed light on the complexities and sometimes harsh realities of intimate partnerships, drawing on the lived experiences of the readership.