Antonia: squeal

As Kajjo says you have to decide whether you should be true to the author's words or not. The mixed metaphors are his and it's not the translator's job to enhance the text... but?

Anyway three versions from me :


Would not the marriage without a mistress become unhealthy? Is not the mistress the hidden stimulant to adultery but also to marriage, both a virus and a vaccine?

Would not the marriage without a mistress creak and crack? Is not the mistress the hidden driving force of adultery as well as marriage, both malfunction and overhaul?

But I would stick with his mixed metaphor:

Would not the marriage without a mistress creak and crack? Is not the mistress the hidden stimulant of adultery as well as marriage, both virus and vaccine?

I'm assuming the author is a man because of his ideas on marriage. Am I right or wrong? ( big smile )

Well, that's a surprise! It's the modern world.

Pleased to help. I find translating as intriguing as crossword puzzles at times.