"Those who are born of parents broken with old age, or of such as are not yet ripe or are too young, or of drunkards, soft or effeminate men, want a great and liberal ingenuity or wit"

This quote by Thomas Willis is referring to the concept that those who are born to moms and dads who are too old, too young, or who are not of sound mind, are at a disadvantage when it comes to having a terrific and liberal wit. Willis is recommending that these individuals might not have the same level of intelligence or imagination as those who are born to parents who are in their prime. He is indicating that the environment in which a person is raised can have a significant influence on their ability to believe and create. Willis is likewise recommending that those who are born to parents who are not of sound mind, such as alcoholics or those who are soft or effeminate, might not have the very same level of wit as those who are born to moms and dads who are in their prime. Eventually, Willis is recommending that the environment in which a person is raised can have a significant impact on their capability to believe and produce.