The ceremony took six minutes. The marriage lasted about the same amount of time though we didn't get a divorce for almost a year.

In this quote, Hedy Lamarr reflects humorously on the brevity of her marriage, suggesting that while the ceremony itself lasted only six minutes, the actual duration of the marriage was similarly short-lived, though they didn't officially divorce until almost a year later. Lamarr uses the quote to highlight the shortness of the relationship, framing it as a fleeting event despite the formalities of the ceremony. Her tone of self-deprecating humor underscores the contradiction between the official nature of marriage and the reality of personal relationships.

The origin of this quote comes from Lamarr's own life, which was marked by several marriages and personal struggles. Lamarr, a renowned actress and inventor, was married six times throughout her life, and her relationships were often scrutinized by the public. This particular quote likely refers to her second marriage to Gene Markey, which ended in a quick and tumultuous way. Lamarr’s candidness about her personal life, particularly her marriage, offers a glimpse into the complexities of fame and relationships in Hollywood.

Lamarr’s comment also reflects a broader sentiment about the gap between the formality of marriage and the reality of romantic relationships. While the ceremony and the vows associated with marriage are meant to signify a long-lasting commitment, the quote suggests that the true nature of a relationship can often be much more fleeting and unpredictable. Lamarr’s use of humor in this context reveals her ability to look back at difficult personal experiences with a sense of irony.

Ultimately, Lamarr’s quote highlights the disconnect between the formal aspect of marriage and the emotional or personal realities that often define the longevity of relationships. It suggests that while societal expectations may place value on the institution of marriage, the true essence of a relationship is more about personal connection and commitment, which doesn’t always align with societal or formal expectations.