This quote by Homer talks to the concept that wisdom is rarely discovered in youth and charm. This is most likely since youth and beauty are typically associated with frivolity and naivety, while knowledge is related to experience and maturity. It is frequently stated that youth is wasted on the young, and this quote suggests that wisdom is too. It is not till we are older and have actually gone through life experiences that we acquire the wisdom that features age. This quote is a pointer to value the knowledge that comes with age, and to not take it for approved. It is also a reminder to not evaluate individuals based upon their age or appearance, as knowledge can come from unanticipated places.
"Raising children is an incredibly hard and risky business in which no cumulative wisdom is gained: each generation repeats the mistakes the previous one made"
"The man who makes everything that leads to happiness depends upon himself, and not upon other men, has adopted the very best plan for living happily. This is the man of moderation, the man of manly character and of wisdom"
