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Age Quote by Ambrose Bierce

“Childhood: the period of human life intermediate between the idiocy of infancy and the folly of youth - two removes from the sin of manhood and three from the remorse of age.” quote by Ambrose Bierce
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“Childhood: the period of human life intermediate between the idiocy of infancy and the folly of youth - two removes from the sin of manhood and three from the remorse of age.”

Ambrose Bierce

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Devil’s Dictionary, 1906

Childhood sits between infant naiveté and youthful folly, a transitional phase before adulthood.

In simple terms: Childhood is a middle stage before adulthood.

Key Takeaway

Appreciate the learning phase of youth.

Themes

development growth transition

Mood

thoughtful nostalgic

Type

philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • education
  • parenting
  • self‑reflection

Key Concepts

philosophy human development

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does this view affect parenting?
  • What lessons can adults learn from childhood?
A Different Perspective

Not all childhoods are carefree; challenges exist.

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