"Never be unfaithful to a lover, except with your wife"

This quote by P. J. O'Rourke is a humorous method of saying that fidelity is important in relationships. He is suggesting that it is acceptable to be unfaithful to a lover, but just with your wife. This could be translated as a joke about the idea that marital relationship is an unique kind of relationship that permits a particular level of flexibility. It could likewise be analyzed as a suggestion that fidelity is necessary in all relationships, and that it is essential to be honest and faithful to your partner. Eventually, this quote is a pointer that fidelity is an important part of any relationship, and that it needs to be appreciated and honored.