"I think middle-age is the best time, if we can escape the fatty degeneration of the conscience which often sets in at about fifty"
- William Ralph Inge
About this Quote
William Ralph Inge's quote recommends that middle age is the very best time in life, as long as one can avoid the moral decline that frequently takes place around the age of fifty. Inge indicates that this ethical decrease is caused by a "fatty deterioration of the conscience", which suggests that it is caused by a physical change in the principles. This might be interpreted as a metaphor for the physical adjustments that occur in the body as one ages, such as a decline in energy as well as an increase in physical conditions. Inge's quote suggests that if one can stay literally and also emotionally healthy and balanced, then midlife can be a time of fantastic delight and also fulfillment. He suggests that it is possible to remain healthy and balanced as well as energetic in middle age, which this is the most effective time to enjoy life as well as take advantage of one's experiences. Inge's quote encourages us to deal with our mind and bodies, to ensure that we can take advantage of our middle age years.
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