Age Quote by John Mortimer
“Like childhood, old age is irresponsible, reckless, and foolhardy. Children and old people have everything to gain and nothing much to lose. It's middle-age which is cursed by the desperate need to cling to some finger-hold halfway up the mountain, to conform, not to cause trouble, to behave well…”
About This Quote
Source Play: A Voyage Round My Father, John Mortimer, 1975
Both youth and old age act without fear, while middle age is trapped by conformity and fear of loss.
In simple terms: Youth and old age are reckless; middle age is constrained.
Key Takeaway
Embrace risk and authenticity at any age.
Themes
risk
conformity
life stages
Mood
thoughtful
hopeful
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- career decisions
- creative projects
- family dynamics
- personal growth
Key Concepts
existentialism
social critique
Questions to Reflect On
- What risks can you take now?
- How might you break free from middle‑age constraints?
A Different Perspective
Middle age can also be a time of wisdom and stability, not just fear.
![“Take sex, for instance.' 'What do you want me to do with it?' 'Try to be serious for a moment. Take the sex life of our father.' [...] Even after a couple of brandies he felt extremely reluctant to discuss sex and his father. 'It's something I'd rather not think about,' he said. 'We all come into…” quote by John Mortimer](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/280/john-mortimer-7362_conception_take-sex-for-instance-what-do-you-want-m_4946.jpg)
