Skip to content

Attraction Quote by Dave Barry

“I believe it was Shakespeare, or possibly Howard Cosell, who first observed that marriage is very much like a birthday candle, in that 'the flames of passion burn brightest when the wick of intimacy is first ignited by the disposable butane lighter of physical attraction, but sooner or later the…” quote by Dave Barry
Download Open image
“I believe it was Shakespeare, or possibly Howard Cosell, who first observed that marriage is very much like a birthday candle, in that 'the flames of passion burn brightest when the wick of intimacy is first ignited by the disposable butane lighter of physical attraction, but sooner or later the heat of familiarity causes the wax of boredom to drip all over the vanilla frosting of novelty and the shredded coconut of romance.' I could not have phrased it better myself.”

Dave Barry

About This Quote

Marriage starts with intense passion but often fades into routine, turning excitement into monotony over time.

In simple terms: Passion fades, routine replaces novelty.

Key Takeaway

Nurture novelty to keep romance alive.

Themes

relationships passion routine novelty marriage

Mood

humorous reflective

Type

observational satirical

When to use this quote

  • long‑term partnership
  • anniversary celebrations
  • relationship counseling
  • daily rituals

Key Concepts

psychology of love habituation relationship dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can couples keep excitement alive?
  • What small changes revive intimacy?
A Different Perspective

Not all marriages follow this pattern; some sustain passion.

2.8 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Dave Barry

Explore all 867 Dave Barry quotes

More Attraction quotes

Browse all 2,006 Attraction quotes