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Young people, nowadays, imagine that money is everything. Yes, murmured Lord Henry, settling his button-hole in his coat; and when they grow older they know it.
Oscar Wilde
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote suggests that young people often prioritize money, but as they age, they come to understand its limitations.

In this quote by Oscar Wilde, the interplay between youth and maturity is highlighted, focusing on the folly of equating money with value. Lord Henry's remark reflects a cynical understanding of life, implying that the pursuit of wealth is a common misconception that many young people hold, only to realize later that true fulfillment comes from deeper, more meaningful pursuits beyond material wealth.

Themes

MoneyYouthWisdomWealthLife Lessons

In practice

Example use cases

This quote could be used in a discussion about the values that young people prioritize in today's society.

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Everything is dangerous, my dear fellow. If it wasn't so, life wouldn't be worth living.
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A truth ceases to be true when more than one person believes in it.
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His morality is all sympathy, just what morality should be
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