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The youth who follows his appetites too soon seizes the…

“The youth who follows his appetites too soon seizes the cup, before it has received its best ingredients, and by anticipating his pleasures, robs the remaining parts of life of their share, so that his eagerness only produces manhood of imbecility and an age of pain.” quote by Oliver Goldsmith
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“The youth who follows his appetites too soon seizes the cup, before it has received its best ingredients, and by anticipating his pleasures, robs the remaining parts of life of their share, so that his eagerness only produces manhood of imbecility and an age of pain.”

Oliver Goldsmith

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Rushing to enjoy pleasures early deprives one of deeper, later rewards, leading to shallow growth and later regret.

In simple terms: Early indulgence steals later benefits, causing shallow development.

Key Takeaway

Delay gratification for richer, fuller life.

Themes

patience moderation growth

Mood

reflective cautious

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • career planning
  • relationships
  • long‑term projects
  • personal development

Key Concepts

human nature temporal discounting life stages

Questions to Reflect On

  • What long‑term goals are you sacrificing for short‑term pleasure?
  • How can you balance immediate joy with future benefit?
A Different Perspective

Rushing can also seize opportunities that require timely action.

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