Earnest Quote by George Herbert
“Leave jesting whiles it pleaseth, lest it turne to earnest.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: The Temple, 1633
Humor should be restrained, lest it becomes serious and loses its lightness.
In simple terms: Don’t let jokes become serious.
Key Takeaway
Balance humor with sincerity.
Themes
humor
self‑control
balance
Mood
playful
cautious
Type
didactic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- Social interactions
- public speaking
- writing style
Key Concepts
Literary restraint
tone management
Questions to Reflect On
- When is humor appropriate?
- How to keep jokes light?
A Different Perspective
Humor can be purposeful.
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