“In married life three is company and two none.”
- October 16, 1854 – November 30, 1900
- Irish
- Author, poet, playwright
- Written novels, plays, and poems such as “The Picture of Dorian Gray,” “The Importance of Being Earnest,” and “Salome,” he had a great influence on British literature in the late 19th century through his witty social criticism and humor.
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Quote
“In married life three is company and two none.”
Explanation
In this quote, Oscar Wilde humorously comments on the dynamics of marriage, suggesting that a third party in the relationship—whether it’s a person or an external influence—can bring interest and stimulation to what might otherwise become a stagnant or monotonous partnership. The idea that “two is none” implies that when a couple is alone, they may lose the excitement and passion that can be created by the presence of a third element. Wilde’s use of irony points to the notion that a marriage can sometimes be enlivened by external forces or even interference, rather than being solely reliant on the two individuals involved.
This quote also touches on Wilde’s cynical view of relationships and society’s expectations of marriage. He seems to suggest that the conventional notion of marriage as a solemn union of two people might not be as ideal or fulfilling as society expects. Wilde’s sharp wit reflects his belief that human relationships, particularly marriage, are often complex and multifaceted, with external influences—whether from friends, family, or even societal expectations—shaping the way a couple relates to one another.
In modern contexts, this quote might reflect the idea that relationships sometimes benefit from outside perspectives or the addition of new dynamics. It suggests that variety and outside engagement can bring a freshness to what might otherwise become routine. Wilde’s words challenge us to think about the nature of partnerships and whether they thrive when confined to just the two people involved, or whether they are enriched by external factors.
