she describes the attitude of men wanting a wife in his life, so he can hinge on her everything and do whatever he want to do in his life. She is showing how selfish and sexist ideas of men are prevalent.Irony in this situation is that while he wants to better his family, said husband wants to burden it.
first glance at the title “I Want a Wife” might lead the reader to believe that the author is a man, but this is merely Syfers showing her confidence that her readers are alert and observant.