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About this quote

What does it mean?
A casual remark noting Huxley's aged appearance yet enduring intellectual charm.
In plain terms
He looked old but still interesting to be around.
What can you take from it?
Age does not diminish intellectual appeal.

Where it applies

  • observing colleagues
  • assessing peers
  • public commentary

Putting it to work

  • value substance over looks
  • cultivate enduring intellect

Questions to consider

  • What makes someone still fascinating in old age?
  • How does appearance affect perception of ability?

Another view

Faded appearance may signal declining relevance to some.

More from Thomas Henry Huxley

  1. 'Huxleyism: the theory of the anthropoid descent of man and its inevitable consequences.'

    Permalink to quote #82
  2. 'I'm a good Christian woman-I'm not an infidel like you!'

    Permalink to quote #84
  3. 'I believed that he was the greatest man I was ever likely to meet, and I believe that all the more firmly today'

    Permalink to quote #81

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