"Children with Hyacinth's temperament don't know better as they grow older; they merely know more"
About this Quote
Hector Hugh Munro, better understood by his pen name Saki, is frequently commemorated for his keen insights into humanity and society, and this particular quote from him is no exception. In stating "Children with Hyacinth's temperament don't know much better as they grow older; they simply know more", Saki provides a nuanced observation about personality, development, and the accumulation of understanding with time.
At first glance, the quote recommends a difference in between 'understanding better' and 'knowing more.' 'Knowing better' indicates an ethical or ethical advancement where an individual learns not just more truths however also gets wisdom and the ability to make much better judgments. In contrast, 'knowing more' stresses a boost in factual info and experience but does not necessarily equate into much better decision-making or increased knowledge. Saki mentions that people with specific innate characters, such as Hyacinth's, may accumulate knowledge and experience as they age but may not develop the insight, maturity, or ethical understanding we often anticipate with the adult years.
The recommendation to "Hyacinth's personality" can be understood as a nod to a natural, possibly unchangeable aspect of personality. Some people are predisposed towards particular habits and mindsets that remain mostly the same throughout their lives. They may be imaginative, whimsical, impulsive, or not practical-- characteristics frequently connected with artistic personalities. Even as they age, those core traits stay intact; they continue to view the world through the exact same lens, even if they have gathered more information about it.
This reflection by Saki invites a factor to consider of how development and maturity are not generally specified by increased wisdom or improved judgment. Rather, for some, life is a build-up of experiences and understanding that do not fundamentally modify their core personality. Understanding this can foster compassion and approval for the diverse ways individuals develop and navigate their lives, recommending that real modification might be less about changing one's intrinsic nature and more about finding harmony between one's innate character and acquired understanding.
More details
About the Author