“As an example to others, and not that I care for moderation myself, it has always been my rule never to smoke when asleep, and never to refrain from smoking when awake.”
- November 30, 1835 – April 21, 1910
- American
- Author, humorist, and lecturer
- Wrote masterpieces such as “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,” and had a major influence on American literature
Quote
“As an example to others, and not that I care for moderation myself, it has always been my rule never to smoke when asleep, and never to refrain from smoking when awake.”
Explanation
This humorous quote from Mark Twain combines self-parody with a wry commentary on moderation and personal habits. By making the point that he never smokes when asleep (a rule that requires no effort) and always smokes when awake (as though this were a great act of moderation), Twain highlights his tendency to take extremes to the next level. The phrase “not that I care for moderation myself” suggests that Twain does not adhere to conventional ideals of balance or restraint, preferring instead to embrace his own preferences, regardless of societal expectations. His exaggeration creates a comedic image of someone taking their personal habits to the extreme, all while pretending to offer an example of moderation to others.
Twain’s attitude toward moderation is consistent with his broader skepticism of conventional wisdom and social norms. Throughout his works, he often mocked the hypocrisy of moral or societal expectations that seemed to demand more restraint or propriety than he was willing to adhere to. In an era where temperance movements and social reforms often urged moderation in personal behaviors, Twain’s quote can be read as a playful jab at those who view restraint as virtuous. His rebellion against these standards is not just about smoking but reflects a broader disdain for what he saw as unnecessary and pretentious forms of self-control.
In modern times, this quote remains relevant as it touches on themes of individualism, self-expression, and the tension between societal expectations and personal freedom. People today still debate the merits of moderation in everything from food consumption to work-life balance. Twain’s exaggeration humorously suggests that sometimes, it’s the extremes or the total embrace of what we enjoy that feels more authentic than adhering to carefully measured restraint. Whether it’s in terms of personal habits or broader life choices, Twain’s perspective reminds us not to take ourselves too seriously in our pursuit of moderation, and to remember that life is often about enjoyment, rather than rigid self-discipline.
