Caution Quote by E. M. Forster
“Solidity, caution, integrity, efficiency. Lack of imagination, hypocrisy. These qualities characterize the middle classes in everycountry, but in England they are national characteristics.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The English Character, 1915
Middle-class traits of caution and integrity can become stifling, limiting imagination.
In simple terms: Caution can suppress creativity.
Key Takeaway
Balance prudence with imagination.
Themes
society
class
culture
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
sociological
observational
When to use this quote
- business leadership
- educational reform
- personal decision‑making
- creative projects
Key Concepts
sociology
psychology
national identity
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you see these traits in your own culture?
- What steps can you take to foster imagination?
A Different Perspective
May generalize beyond England.
![“[D]on't grow old. With age comes caution, which is another name for cowardice… Whatever else you do in life, don't cultivate a conscience. Without a conscience a man may never be said to grow old. This is an age of very old young men.” quote by Hesketh Pearson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/076/hesketh-pearson-35291_age_d-on-t-grow-old-with-age-comes-caution-w_14010.jpg)
![“[U]se extreme caution, and please remember that 451 degrees Fahrenheit is more than just a book a title…” quote by Ammon Shea](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/361/ammon-shea-38017_books_u-se-extreme-caution-and-please-remember_36287.jpg)
