A Divorce of Ideas

It's not often that I find myself disagreeing with Lewis on a matter that isn't doctrine. However, I confess that I do not see eye-to-eye with him on some of his social views regarding the division of responsibilities in marriage. There are some particular points that I believe, if taken as general ideas and not specific directives as he states, could provide a valuable framework to divvying up areas of authority or presidency in a marriage. For doesn't Lewis have a point that, when a difference of opinion in an area that affects both partners arises and neither of them can agree with the other, one must win out if a compromise cannot be reached? I have seen the arrangement of designated areas of authority between spouses practiced to great success. For instance, the wife was the end authority on all matters inside the home, whereas the husband was ultimately in charge of decisions concerning the exterior and grounds. Thus, when they had a disagreement about what to do in a certain area in or around the home, there was not any confusion about who had the "say" if they failed to come to a consensus.

If Lewis had done as was his custom and gave general counsel based on principles rather than specifics, I believe most readers would be able to see where he was coming from. I can't help but wonder, however, if his feelings shifted after he personally experienced what he had given advice for in marriage.