All marriages are happy. It's the living together afterward that causes all the trouble.

The quote by Raymond Hull presents a humorous yet realistic view of marriage. When he says, “All marriages are happy,” he refers to the joy and optimism that usually accompany the wedding itself—the ceremony, the vows, and the sense of new beginnings. At that stage, couples are often filled with hope and affection, believing their union will be free of serious challenges.

The twist comes in the second part: “It’s the living together afterward that causes all the trouble.” Here, Hull points out that the true test of marriage is not the celebration but the everyday reality of sharing a life. Differences in habits, personalities, expectations, and responsibilities can turn what begins as bliss into conflict or tension. The humor lies in the contrast between the idealized start and the practical struggles that follow.

The origin of this quote reflects Hull’s broader reputation as a Canadian playwright, lecturer, and writer known for witty observations on human relationships and behavior. Much like other humorists, Hull used exaggeration and irony to expose truths about society and the challenges of maintaining long-term bonds. His comment fits within a tradition of satirical takes on marriage that both entertain and provoke thought.

Ultimately, Hull’s statement underscores that the success of marriage depends not on the initial joy but on how couples navigate the ongoing realities of living together. By framing this truth with humor, he makes a lighthearted but honest observation about why so many relationships struggle after the honeymoon phase ends.