Whenever a husband and wife begin to discuss their marriage they are giving evidence at a coroner's inquest.

In this quote, H. L. Mencken, a renowned American journalist and social critic, uses dark humor to illustrate the complexities of marriage and the often uncomfortable nature of discussions within it. By comparing a marital conversation to evidence at a coroner's inquest, Mencken humorously suggests that such discussions can feel like an investigation into the death or failure of the relationship. The metaphor implies that when a couple begins to critically examine their marriage, it can often feel like they are dissecting something that is already in a state of decline or on the verge of collapse.

Mencken’s comparison to a coroner’s inquest, a legal proceeding to determine the cause of death, highlights the tension and negativity that can arise when couples reflect on their relationship. The statement suggests that discussions about marital problems or concerns can sometimes seem like a grim task, as if the marriage itself is on trial or nearing its end. Mencken’s use of the word “inquest” carries with it a sense of inevitability and finality, reinforcing the idea that such conversations often feel like a form of mourning or examination of a lost connection.

The quote also reflects Mencken's broader cynicism about social institutions like marriage, which he often critiqued in his writings. Mencken was known for his skeptical view of societal norms and human behavior, and in this instance, he portrays marriage not as an idealized institution but as a partnership that can be fraught with misunderstandings, disappointments, and difficult truths. His comparison underscores how discussions of marriage, rather than being constructive or harmonious, can sometimes highlight its flaws and the inherent challenges of maintaining a relationship.

Ultimately, Mencken’s quote serves as a reminder that marriage, while often romanticized, is also a complex and sometimes challenging institution. It suggests that discussing marital issues can feel uncomfortable or even bleak, as if the relationship is undergoing a kind of judgment or scrutiny. Through his sharp wit, Mencken draws attention to the darker side of marriage—the reality that relationships require work, reflection, and sometimes painful honesty.