Quote of the day by Robert Anderson: 'In every marriage more than a week old, there are grounds for divorce. The trick is to find, and continue to find, grounds for marriage' - Lessons on the secret behind long-lasting relationships by American playwright

Marriage is often portrayed as a perfect union built entirely on love, romance and understanding. But in reality, long-term relationships come with disagreements, emotional distance, frustrations and countless moments that test two people over time. One of the most honest observations about marriage came from American author, playwright and screenwriter Robert Anderson, whose famous quote continues to feel relatable with couples decades later. His words offer a realistic yet hopeful perspective on why relationships survive despite inevitable challenges.

The quote of the day reads: “In every marriage more than a week old, there are grounds for divorce. The trick is to find and continue to find grounds for marriage.” Anderson wrote the line in his play Double Solitaire, a work that explored emotional complexity, loneliness and human relationships.

At first glance, the quote may seem cynical because it openly acknowledges conflict in marriage. However, its deeper meaning lies not in pessimism, but in commitment and emotional effort. Robert Anderson suggests that disagreements and disappointments are natural parts of any relationship once the initial excitement fades away.


The line challenges the common belief that successful marriages are free from problems. Instead, he argues that every couple eventually encounters differences in personality, communication, habits and expectations. According to the playwright, these issues can become “grounds for divorce” if couples only focus on frustration and resentment.



However, the second half of the quote completely changes its tone. The two-time Academy Award nominee says the real “trick” lies in continuously finding reasons to remain together. In other words, marriage is not sustained by perfection, but by consciously choosing love, companionship, understanding and forgiveness again and again.

The quote also highlights the importance of perspective. Couples who survive difficult phases often do so because they focus on shared memories, emotional support and mutual growth rather than temporary conflicts. Anderson’s words remind readers that long-lasting relationships require effort, patience and a willingness to rediscover one another over time.

Even today, the quote remains relatable because modern relationships continue to face emotional and social pressures. In a world where relationships can quickly fall apart over misunderstandings or changing priorities, Anderson’s message feels especially relevant. His words encourage people to see marriage as an ongoing partnership rather than a flawless fairy tale.

Who was Robert Anderson?

According to The Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute, Robert Anderson was one of America’s most important playwrights and was often described as the “dramatist of loneliness” because of his emotionally layered storytelling. His work frequently explored themes of isolation, love, emotional vulnerability and family conflict.

Anderson was born in New York City in 1917. He studied at Phillips Exeter Academy before attending Harvard University, where he completed both undergraduate and graduate degrees. It was during his time at Harvard that he began writing for the stage and developed a strong interest in theatre.

Plays that defined his career

Over the years, Anderson wrote several successful plays that gained critical acclaim both in the United States and internationally. His most famous work remains Tea and Sympathy, which made its Broadway debut in 1953 before later being adapted into a film.

He also wrote acclaimed works such as Silent Night, Lonely Night, You Know I Can't Hear You When the Water's Running and I Never Sang for My Father. Many of these plays focused on strained relationships, emotional disconnect and the complexities of family life.

According to The Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute, Anderson’s plays were staged professionally as well as in community and college theatres around the world, reflecting the universal appeal of his writing.

Work in films and television

Apart from theatre, Anderson also built a successful career as a screenwriter. He wrote scripts for films including Tea and Sympathy, The Nun's Story and The Sand Pebbles.

Several of his screenplays received Academy Award nominations, while I Never Sang for My Father earned him recognition from the Writers Guild of America. He also worked extensively in television and radio, and later wrote novels, including After and Getting Up and Going Home. Anderson was inducted into the American Theater Hall of Fame in 1981 and remained closely associated with the Dramatists Guild during his lifetime.

Although Robert Anderson passed away in 2009 at the age of 91, many of his words continue to resonate with readers today. His famous quote about marriage stands out because it avoids fantasy and instead embraces emotional honesty.