"In 1977 we played America and Europe three times, and Japan - my marriage suffered as a result. My then wife took the kids to Canada to be near her parents"

In this quote, Phil Collins reviews the needs of his career as a musician and the individual toll it took on his domesticity. By 1977, Collins was currently deeply associated with his music career, mostly as the drummer and later on the diva for the band Genesis, as well as participating in numerous other musical projects. The quote succinctly catches the intense schedule he had and the geographical degree of his trips, that included substantial travel throughout America, Europe, and Japan. The repeated nature of these trips is highlighted by the reference of playing in America and Europe three times within a single year, highlighting a ruthless work ethic and possibly a growing global popularity.

Collins openly acknowledges that this requiring schedule came at a significant personal cost, specifically to his marital relationship. The phrase "my marriage suffered as a result" is a candid admission of the destructive impact that his professional dedications had on his individual life. It hints at the traditional struggle faced by lots of in requiring careers-- balancing success with family life. The duties and pressures of keeping an effective music career often involve sacrifices, and in this case, Collins' commitment to his profession eclipsed his ability to support his family relationships.

The decision of his "then wife" to move with their kids to Canada shows a physical and emotional distance that had actually established. This action can be interpreted as a coping mechanism to supply stability for the kids, potentially seeking familial assistance from her moms and dads during Collins' extended absences. The phrase "my then spouse" subtly signifies that the marital relationship eventually ended, likely a consequence of the continuous strains described.

In general, the quote reveals the individual sacrifices and unintended consequences that can accompany expert success, particularly in careers that require extensive travel and time away from home. Collins' reflection uses insight into the complexities of managing a public career with private duties.