"You can construct the character of a man and his age not only from what he does and says, but from what he fails to say and do"

This quote by Norman Douglas indicates that an individual's character and age can be deduced not simply from their actions and words, but also from the important things they select not to do or state. In numerous ways, what someone fails to do or say can be just as revealing as the important things that they do or state. It suggests that humans are intricate and multi-dimensional creatures, and that it takes a mindful, watchful eye to genuinely comprehend them. This quote serves as a suggestion to focus not simply to individuals's overt behavior, but also to the subtler aspects of their character and habits.