"I'm trying to be more of a gentleman"
About this Quote
The word "gentleman" is doing double duty. Culturally, it's a throwback term that can mean basic decency (be respectful, listen, show up) or a polished performance of masculinity (chivalry, restraint, manners). Mraz leans into the softer read: gentleness as a discipline. For a musician whose brand has often been sunny, romantic, and earnest, the line quietly admits that sweetness doesn't automatically equal maturity. Charm can coexist with selfish habits; good vibes can still leave messes.
The subtext is accountability without self-flagellation. It's not "I am a gentleman", which would invite eye-rolls and scrutiny; it's a public note-to-self. In a culture increasingly skeptical of "nice guy" posturing, "trying" signals humility and a willingness to be evaluated over time. It also hints at a generational recalibration: masculinity as something you practice responsibly rather than assert.
Contextually, artists often use this language when they are renegotiating relationships, fame, or past behavior. The quote works because it lowers the stakes while raising the standard: a small sentence that suggests a bigger, ongoing rewrite.
Quote Details
| Topic | Respect |
|---|---|
| Source | Help us find the source |
| Cite |
Citation Formats
APA Style (7th ed.)
Mraz, Jason. (2026, January 17). I'm trying to be more of a gentleman. FixQuotes. https://fixquotes.com/quotes/im-trying-to-be-more-of-a-gentleman-80259/
Chicago Style
Mraz, Jason. "I'm trying to be more of a gentleman." FixQuotes. January 17, 2026. https://fixquotes.com/quotes/im-trying-to-be-more-of-a-gentleman-80259/.
MLA Style (9th ed.)
"I'm trying to be more of a gentleman." FixQuotes, 17 Jan. 2026, https://fixquotes.com/quotes/im-trying-to-be-more-of-a-gentleman-80259/. Accessed 3 Apr. 2026.







