If the behaviour of babies and small children is any…
“If the behaviour of babies and small children is any guide, we emerge into the world with our tendencies to imbalance already well entrenched. In our playpens and high chairs, we are rarely far from displaying either hysterical happiness or savage disappointment, love or rage, mania or exhaustion--and, despite the growth of a more temperate exterior in adulthood, we seldom succeed in laying claim to lasting equilibrium, traversing our lives like stubbornly listing ships on choppy seas.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Human emotional patterns are established early and persist, causing adults to oscillate between extremes despite attempts at balance.
In simple terms: Early emotions shape adult instability.
Key Takeaway
Accept and work with emotional swings.
Themes
emotional development
balance
human nature
Mood
reflective
introspective
Type
philosophical
psychological
When to use this quote
- parenting
- therapy
- self‑awareness
- relationship counseling
Key Concepts
psychology
developmental theory
Questions to Reflect On
- What early experiences shape your emotional extremes?
- Can you cultivate steadiness despite early tendencies?
A Different Perspective
Emotional balance may be limited by deep‑seated habits.