Meaning: The quote "My wife and I were happy for 20 years. Then we met" by comedian Rodney Dangerfield is a humorous take on the common trope of a married couple's relationship changing over time. Dangerfield, known for his self-deprecating humor and witty one-liners, often joked about marriage and relationships in his stand-up routines. This particular quote captures the ironic and lighthearted perspective that Dangerfield brought to the topic of marriage.

At first glance, the quote seems to suggest that the speaker's happiness in marriage was disrupted by meeting their spouse. This reversal of expectations is what makes the quote humorous. It plays on the idea that familiarity and proximity in a long-term relationship can sometimes lead to friction and conflict, as opposed to the initial bliss of newlywed life. By attributing this shift in happiness to the act of meeting their spouse, the quote subverts the traditional narrative of love and marriage, offering a comedic twist on the challenges of maintaining a happy relationship over time.

Rodney Dangerfield was known for his ability to find humor in everyday situations, and this quote reflects his skill in finding comedy in the ups and downs of married life. His delivery and timing would have likely added to the comedic effect of the quote, as he had a knack for delivering punchlines with a mix of exasperation and playfulness.

In a broader sense, the quote also touches on the universal experience of relationships evolving and changing over time. The initial excitement and romance of a new relationship can give way to familiarity and routine, and couples often find themselves navigating new dynamics as they grow and change together. Dangerfield's quote captures the bittersweet humor in this reality, highlighting the ironic nature of how relationships can sometimes veer off from their original course.

As with much of Dangerfield's comedy, this quote resonates with audiences because it taps into a relatable aspect of human experience. While it may be exaggerated for comedic effect, the underlying truth about the complexities of relationships and the unexpected twists they can take strikes a chord with many people. The quote serves as a reminder that even in the midst of challenges and changes, there is often humor to be found in the quirks and idiosyncrasies of love and marriage.

In conclusion, Rodney Dangerfield's quote "My wife and I were happy for 20 years. Then we met" encapsulates his comedic approach to the theme of marriage and relationships. Through its playful subversion of expectations and its reflection of the universal experience of relationship dynamics, the quote highlights Dangerfield's ability to find humor in the everyday realities of life. It serves as a humorous commentary on the twists and turns of long-term relationships, offering a lighthearted perspective on the complexities of love and marriage.