You can forgive people who do not follow you through a philosophical disquisition; but to find your wife laughing when you had tears in your eyes, or staring when you were in a fit of laughter, would go some way towards a dissolution of the marriage.

In this quote, Robert Louis Stevenson reflects on the emotional complexities of a marriage and the importance of emotional support and understanding between partners. He suggests that while it's possible to forgive someone who does not engage with or fully comprehend your philosophical or intellectual reflections, it is much harder to accept when a spouse does not respond appropriately to your emotional states. Specifically, he contrasts two extreme emotional moments: one where you are in tears and your wife laughs, and another where you are in a fit of laughter and she is indifferent or unresponsive.

Stevenson’s words point to the sensitivity required in intimate relationships. A marriage is based not just on shared intellectual or philosophical values, but on the ability to connect emotionally with one another. In the context of this quote, Stevenson suggests that emotional disconnects in key moments—whether in grief or joy—could lead to a fundamental breakdown in the relationship, possibly resulting in its dissolution.

By highlighting these emotional extremes, Stevenson makes the case that understanding and empathy are critical components of a successful marriage. The quote speaks to the emotional intimacy that comes with being in a committed relationship. If a spouse cannot empathize or engage with your emotional needs during vulnerable moments, it can lead to feelings of isolation and strain, undermining the bond between partners.

Ultimately, Stevenson is exploring the fragility of marital connections when there is a lack of emotional harmony. The quote implies that while intellectual disagreements or misunderstandings might be forgiven over time, emotional neglect—especially when it undermines your vulnerable moments—could be more difficult to reconcile, potentially leading to the breakdown of the relationship.