Skip to content

Age Quote by William Makepeace Thackeray

“Only to two or three persons in all the world are the reminiscences of a man's early youth interesting: to the parent who nursed him; to the fond wife or child mayhap afterwards who loves him; to himself always and supremely--whatever may be his actual prosperity or ill fortune, his present age…” quote by William Makepeace Thackeray
Download Open image
“Only to two or three persons in all the world are the reminiscences of a man's early youth interesting: to the parent who nursed him; to the fond wife or child mayhap afterwards who loves him; to himself always and supremely--whatever may be his actual prosperity or ill fortune, his present age, illness, difficulties, renown, or disappointments--the dawn of his life still shines brightly for him, the early griefs and delights and attachments remain with him ever faithful and dear.”

William Makepeace Thackeray

About This Quote

Source Novel: Vanity Fair, 1848

Early memories stay vivid for those closest to us, shaping identity regardless of later success or hardship.

In simple terms: Early memories stay vivid for close ones.

Key Takeaway

Cherish and reflect on formative experiences.

Themes

memory family identity reflection

Mood

nostalgic thoughtful introspective

Type

philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • career planning
  • therapy
  • writing memoirs
  • family gatherings
  • teaching history

Key Concepts

psychology nostalgia developmental parent-child relationships marriage self-reflection

Questions to Reflect On

  • Which early memory still guides you?
  • How do close relationships influence recollection?
A Different Perspective

Memories can be idealized, overlooking negative aspects.

2.5 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by William Makepeace Thackeray

Explore all 384 William Makepeace Thackeray quotes

More Age quotes

Browse all 18,949 Age quotes