What Does a Swaying, Serpentine Gait Mean?
The folk saying, “A swaying, serpentine gait, a lifetime of distant and infrequent husbands,” stems from traditional beliefs in physiognomy, linking gait, and physique to destiny, especially marital life.
“A swaying, serpentine gait”: This describes a swaying, undulating gait or a slender, serpentine physique. In folk culture, such a gait is often considered immodest and associated with promiscuity and instability.
“A lifetime of distant and infrequent husbands”: Ancient beliefs held that women with this gait would face challenges in their marriages, with husbands often distant geographically or emotionally, and rare lasting happiness. This could be due to the societal biases of the time, when women were judged harshly based on their appearance and demeanor.

Physiognomy: Ancients believed that one’s appearance and gait reflected their character and destiny. A “swaying” gait was considered improper and potentially led to an unstable life.
Social Biases: Women in the past were expected to be modest and reserved. A serpentine gait could attract unwanted attention and lead to moral judgments and assumptions about family happiness.
Community Psychology: Folk proverbs like this were often how society explained social phenomena, despite a lack of scientific basis. It reflects the thinking of the time, when marriage and happiness were influenced by factors beyond one’s control, such as a husband working far away, war, or separation.

Is This Saying Still Relevant Today?
Today, the saying, “A swaying, serpentine gait, a lifetime of distant and infrequent husbands,” is mostly a cultural and historical artifact, not taken literally. Gait or physical appearance does not determine one’s fate, as happiness depends on various factors such as emotions, understanding, and living conditions. Additionally, modern perceptions go beyond merely judging one’s gait.
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