Skip to content

Children Quote by Michel de Montaigne

“Plato forbids children wine till eighteen years of age, and to get drunk till forty; but, after forty, gives them leave to please themselves, and to mix a little liberally in their feasts the influence of Dionysos, that good deity who restores to younger men their gaiety and to old men their…” quote by Michel de Montaigne
Download Open image
““Plato forbids children wine till eighteen years of age, and to get drunk till forty; but, after forty, gives them leave to please themselves, and to mix a little liberally in their feasts the influence of Dionysos, that good deity who restores to younger men their gaiety and to old men their youth...fit to inspire old men with mettle to divert themselves in dancing and music; things of great use, and that they dare not attempt when sober.””

Michel de Montaigne

About This Quote

Source Essay: “Apology for Raymond Sebond” by Michel de Montaigne, 1580

Aging can bring wisdom that restores youthful vigor, allowing older people to enjoy pleasures they avoided when sober.

In simple terms: Old age can regain youthful joy through moderation.

Key Takeaway

Embrace balanced joy at any age.

Themes

aging wisdom moderation joy

Mood

reflective optimistic

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • retirement gatherings
  • intergenerational festivals
  • personal reflection
  • healthcare counseling

Key Concepts

Human nature psychology cultural norms

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can one balance pleasure and responsibility in later life?
  • What practices keep joy healthy as we age?
A Different Perspective

Excessive indulgence can still harm health despite moderation.

5.0 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Michel de Montaigne

Explore all 1,132 Michel de Montaigne quotes

More Children quotes

Browse all 62,402 Children quotes