Children are supposed to help hold a marriage together. They do this in a number of ways. For instance, they demand so much attention that a husband and wife, concentrating on their children, fail to notice each other's faults.

In this quote, Richard Armour humorously suggests that children can play an unexpected role in marriage—they can act as a kind of glue that helps hold the relationship together. Armour implies that the demands of raising children can create a distraction from the challenges and imperfections within the marriage. Parents, preoccupied with the needs of their children, might become less focused on each other’s flaws and differences. In this sense, children can inadvertently protect the relationship by shifting attention away from the issues that might otherwise strain a marriage.

The quote presents a somewhat satirical view of how children impact a relationship, implying that the focus on raising children can act as a buffer that masks marital difficulties. Instead of the couple’s attention being on each other’s shortcomings or possible conflicts, they are pulled into the whirlwind of parenting. While this may not be the healthiest foundation for a relationship, Armour’s observation offers a lighter, somewhat ironic perspective on how children can influence the dynamics between husband and wife.

The origin of the quote is part of Armour's larger body of work as a humorist and satirist. Known for his witty takes on everyday life, he often explored the complexities of marriage, family life, and parenting with humor. His quotes, such as this one, reflect a blend of light-hearted wisdom and ironic observations about human relationships, making them relatable while also offering a touch of comic relief on serious topics.

Ultimately, Armour’s quote highlights the complexity of marriage and parenting. It suggests that while children may not be the ideal solution to marital issues, they can inadvertently help maintain the relationship by redirecting focus and creating shared goals. It also serves as a reminder that the challenges of marriage and parenthood are intertwined, and sometimes the mere act of caring for others—even in the face of difficulties—can help keep a partnership intact.