In the quote from William Faulkner's "As I Lay Dying," the speaker reflects on the idea that marriage alone cannot fundamentally improve a person's character or life situation. This perspective suggests that relying solely on marriage as a solution to life's challenges is misguided, indicating that true change must come from within a person. It implies a sense of skepticism about the transformative power of marriage.

The statement underscores a belief in personal responsibility and the importance of self-improvement. If a man is so lacking in hope or capability that only marriage can offer him salvation, then he is perceived to be in a dire state. Faulkner’s work often explores complex human emotions and relationships, and this quote captures that theme by highlighting the limitations of external solutions to internal problems.