"People stay married because they want to, not because the doors are locked"

This quote by Paul Newman speaks to the idea that marriage is an option, not an obligation. It recommends that couples remain together because they select to, not due to the fact that they are forced to. This suggests that marital relationship is a voluntary commitment, which couples ought to not stay together out of a sense of obligation or duty. It also suggests that couples ought to not remain together out of fear of the consequences of leaving. Rather, couples should stay together due to the fact that they wish to, due to the fact that they are dedicated to each other and to the relationship. This quote motivates couples to make conscious choices about their relationship, and to stay together only if they really want to. It recommends that marriage should be based upon mutual love and respect, not on fear or commitment.