"Marriage resembles a pair of shears, so joined that they cannot be separated; often moving in opposite directions, yet always punishing anyone who comes between them"

This quote by Sydney Smith is a metaphor for marital relationship. The 2 shears represent a married couple, joined together and not able to be separated. The shears are frequently moving in opposite instructions, representing the disagreements and differences of opinion that can take place in a marital relationship. Nevertheless, the quote also suggests that the couple will always stay together, and anybody who attempts to come between them will be punished. This quote is a pointer that marriage is a dedication that needs to not be taken lightly, and that couples ought to make every effort to collaborate and stay united despite their differences. It also serves as an alerting to those who might try to interfere in a marriage, as they will not be successful in doing so.