"Most were beginning to feel they had learned enough to last for the rest of their lives. They remained mathematicians, but largely went their own way"

This quote by Benoit Mandelbrot talks to the idea that lots of mathematicians reach a point in their lives where they feel they have found out enough to last them for the rest of their lives. This might be interpreted as an indication of contentment and complete satisfaction with their understanding and achievements. In spite of this, they still stay mathematicians, however they tend to pursue their own private paths and interests. This could be seen as a sign of maturity and confidence in their capabilities, as they are no longer counting on the assistance of others to direct their studies. It might likewise be viewed as an indication of independence, as they are no longer bound to the conventional courses of mathematics and are rather exploring their own interests. Ultimately, this quote speaks with the idea that mathematicians can reach a point in their lives where they feel they have discovered enough to last them for the rest of their lives, and that they can still remain mathematicians while pursuing their own specific paths.