" To a shameful extent, the charm of marriage boils down to how unpleasant it is to be alone. "
- Alain de Botton

In essence, Alain de Botton's statement suggests that one aspect of marriage's appeal lies in the discomfort of solitude. It implies that some people might find marriage more attractive precisely because being single can feel isolating and unfulfilling.

On a deeper level, this quote touches on complex human emotions and societal expectations surrounding relationships and individualism. The idea is that for certain individuals, the prospect of companionship serves as an antidote to loneliness or inadequacy. This perspective challenges the romantic notion that people should enter into marriage out of love alone, acknowledging instead that practical considerations such as social support and emotional security also play significant roles. It prompts us to consider how societal pressures and personal insecurities might influence our views on partnership.

Alain de Botton is a Swiss-British philosopher, essayist, novelist, and television presenter. Known for his engaging style of blending philosophy with everyday life, he often addresses topics such as love, culture, and society in accessible ways. His work encourages readers to think critically about their lives while offering insights into human nature and relationships.