Marriage is give and take. You'd better give it to her or she'll take it anyway.

In this humorous quote, Joey Adams, a comedian and writer, offers a witty take on the dynamics of marriage. He suggests that a successful marriage involves both giving and taking, but with a playful twist: if one partner doesn't make an effort to give to the other, they’ll find that the partner will simply take what they need anyway. The quote underscores the importance of reciprocity and mutual effort in a relationship, while also poking fun at the idea that one partner might, in a sense, "take charge" if the other is not contributing equally.

Adams uses humor to highlight a common truth about relationships—that for them to work, both individuals must give to one another, whether emotionally, practically, or in terms of attention and support. However, he frames this in a light-hearted and somewhat cheeky way, implying that ignoring this balance can lead to consequences. The playful suggestion that one partner will take what they need regardless of the other’s willingness adds a layer of comedic exaggeration, which is typical of Adams’ comedic style.

The quote also reflects the give-and-take nature of many human relationships, not just marriage. While presented in a humorous context, it speaks to the need for mutual respect, understanding, and effort in a partnership. Adams is not advocating for a one-sided dynamic, but rather using humor to point out that relationships require a balance of both giving and receiving for them to thrive.

Joey Adams was known for his observational comedy, often focusing on the quirks and ironies of everyday life. This quote is a typical example of how he used humor to make light of serious issues—such as the challenges of marriage—while also providing a humorous lens through which to consider the complexities of human interactions. By blending humor with truth, Adams emphasizes the need for communication and compromise in relationships, though with a playful, comedic twist.