Age Quote by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
“Whoever, in middle age, attempts to realize the wishes and hopes of his early youth, invariably deceives himself. Each ten years of a man's life has its own fortunes, its own hopes, its own desires.”
About This Quote
Source Literature: Faust, Part Two, 1832
Midlife attempts to recapture youthful dreams often lead to self‑deception; each decade has its own goals.
In simple terms: Trying to live past dreams later can be self‑deceptive; each life stage has unique hopes.
Key Takeaway
Embrace the present stage's possibilities.
Themes
age
hope
self‑deception
life stages
Mood
contemplative
wise
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- career planning
- midlife crisis
- goal setting
- personal growth
Key Concepts
psychology
philosophy
time
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you align current goals with present realities?
- What new hopes emerge at this life stage?
A Different Perspective
Ignoring current opportunities can waste time; past dreams may no longer fit.
