Living together Quote by C.S. Lewis
““If people do not believe in permanent marriage, it is perhaps better that they should live together unmarried than that they should make vows they do not mean to keep. It is true that by living together without marriage they will be guilty (in Christian eyes) of fornication. But one fault is not mended by adding another; unchastity is not improved by adding perjury. The idea that 'being in love' is the only reason for remaining married really leaves no room for marriage as a contract or promise at all. If love is the whole thing, then the promise can add nothing; and if it adds nothing, then it should not be made.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Four Loves, 1960
Lewis contends that marriage should be based on commitment, not solely on romantic love, suggesting cohabitation may be preferable to insincere vows.
In simple terms: Marriage should be a contract, not just love; otherwise vows are empty.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize commitment over fleeting love.
Themes
marriage
commitment
love
ethics
relationships
Mood
thoughtful
pragmatic
Type
philosophical
relationship
When to use this quote
- marriage counseling
- relationship advice
- ethical discussions
- personal decisions
- cultural norms
Key Concepts
Contractual marriage
love as insufficient
ethical vows
Questions to Reflect On
- What role should love play in marriage vows?
- Is commitment more important than affection?
A Different Perspective
Love alone may not sustain a marriage; practical considerations matter.
![“[F]rom my years of understanding ... I happily chose this kind of life in which I yet live [i.e., unmarried], which I assure you for my own part hath hitherto best contented myself and I trust hath been most acceptable to God. From the which if either ambition of high estate offered to me in…” quote by Elizabeth I](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9cd/elizabeth-i-3475_bachelorhood_f-rom-my-years-of-understanding-i-happil_1770596.jpg)
![“I look upon Virginia as a rib taken from Britain's side... While they both proceed as living under the marriage-compact, this Eve might thrive so long as her Adam flourishes. Whatever serpent shall tempt her to go astray etc [will only cause] her husband to rule more strictly over her.” quote by Alexander Spotswood](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/08d/alexander-spotswood-217587_adam_i-look-upon-virginia-as-a-rib-taken-from_990723.jpg)
