At thirty, man suspects himself a fool; Knows it at forty, and reforms his plan; At fifty chides his infamous delay, Pushes his prudent purpose to resolve; In all the magnanimity of thought Resolves, and re-resolves; then dies the same.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Men realize their foolishness in midlife and try to change, but often fail to act before death.
- In plain terms
- People often wait too long to fix their mistakes and die without really changing.
- What can you take from it?
- Procrastination leads to unfulfilled resolutions.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When did you last resolve to change?
- What stops you from acting on resolutions?
Another view
Not everyone dies without reforming; some do change successfully.
More from Edward Young
Procrastination is the thief of time.
Permalink to quote #28 All men think all men mortal but themselves.
Permalink to quote #30 Be wise today; 'tis madness to defer.
Permalink to quote #27
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