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Age Quote by Max Beerbohm

“Has the gift of laughter been withdrawn from me? I protest that I do still, at the age of forty-seven, laugh often and loud and long. But not, I believe, so long and loud and often as in my less smiling youth. And I am proud, nowadays, of laughing, and grateful to any one who makes me laugh. That…” quote by Max Beerbohm
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“Has the gift of laughter been withdrawn from me? I protest that I do still, at the age of forty-seven, laugh often and loud and long. But not, I believe, so long and loud and often as in my less smiling youth. And I am proud, nowadays, of laughing, and grateful to any one who makes me laugh. That is a bad sign. I no longer take laughter as a matter of course.”

Max Beerbohm

About This Quote

Source Essay: "The Book of the World" by Max Beerbohm, 1912

A reflection on aging and the changing nature of joy, noting that laughter feels less automatic and more treasured.

In simple terms: Aging changes how we experience joy.

Key Takeaway

Cherish moments that bring laughter.

Themes

aging joy gratitude

Mood

reflective bittersweet

Type

personal philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • social gatherings
  • mental health
  • self‑care

Key Concepts

psychology human experience

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you cultivate laughter now?
  • What does laughter mean to you as you age?
A Different Perspective

Laughter may be harder to find without intentional effort.

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