Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
Lifestyle
Eleanor Gordon-Smith

My husband and I have separated. So why do I find it impossible to get a divorce?

Painting: In Love by Marcus Stone, 1907
‘Perhaps continuing to press for this last legal formality takes a bit of temerity.’ Painting: In Love by Marcus Stone (1907). Photograph: Wikimedia Commons

I’m in my early 70s and have been married to one man for over half a century. However, we’ve lived apart for four years now, and I like it very much. My husband was a bad-tempered man, and it was a relief to move out. My problem is that I seem frozen and unable to move on to a divorce.

My husband has improved his behaviour over the past four years, loves me, and we do have grandchildren and a rich history together. However, I don’t love him any more. Recently I met a man who would like to become more involved with me. I’d love to have an affair with him, but I know I don’t want to marry him or move in together. He lives hundreds of miles away. But what fun it would be to have him as a boyfriend! He is kind and I enjoy his company.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.