Skip to content

Foolish Quote by W. Somerset Maugham

“We are foolish and sentimental and melodramatic at twenty-five, but if we weren’t perhaps we should be less wise at fifty.” quote by W. Somerset Maugham
Download Open image
““We are foolish and sentimental and melodramatic at twenty-five, but if we weren’t perhaps we should be less wise at fifty.””

W. Somerset Maugham

About This Quote

Source Book: The Razor's Edge, 1944

Youth is often marked by idealism and emotional excess, while age brings caution and wisdom, sometimes at the cost of youthful spontaneity.

In simple terms: Youth is wild; age is cautious.

Key Takeaway

Balance youthful passion with mature insight.

Themes

youth wisdom growth reflection balance

Mood

nostalgic contemplative thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • career planning
  • relationship advice
  • personal development
  • midlife crisis
  • intergenerational dialogue

Key Concepts

psychology life stages emotional development

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we retain youthful curiosity as we age?
  • What does wisdom mean to you?
A Different Perspective

Older age may suppress creativity and spontaneity.

2.6 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by W. Somerset Maugham

Explore all 840 W. Somerset Maugham quotes

More Foolish quotes

Browse all 1,867 Foolish quotes