Age Quote by Desiderius Erasmus
“People who use their erudition to write for a learned minority... don't seem to me favored by fortune but rather to be pitied for their continuous self-torture. They add, change, remove, lay aside, take up, rephrase, show to their friends, keep for nine years and are never satisfied. And their futile reward, a word of praise from a handful of people, they win at such a cost -- so many late nights, such loss of sleep, sweetest of all things, and so much sweat and anguish... their health deteriorates, their looks are destroyed, they suffer partial or total blindness, poverty, ill-will, denial of pleasure, premature old age and early death.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Praise of Folly, 1511
Intellectuals who write for a niche audience suffer personal hardship for little recognition.
In simple terms: Writing for a few brings great personal cost.
Key Takeaway
Balance ambition with well‑being.
Themes
scholarship
sacrifice
recognition
health
loneliness
Mood
melancholy
reflective
Type
cautionary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- academic publishing
- creative writing
- late‑night research
- health neglect
- financial strain
Key Concepts
Ego
perfectionism
elitism
Questions to Reflect On
- Is the pursuit of excellence worth the personal toll?
- How can scholars protect their health while striving for impact?
A Different Perspective
Even praised work can lead to burnout and isolation.
