“When I was young I thought that money was the most important thing in life; now that I am old I know that it is.”
- October 16, 1854 – November 30, 1900
- Irish
- Author, poet, playwright
- Written novels, plays, and poems such as “The Picture of Dorian Gray,” “The Importance of Being Earnest,” and “Salome,” he had a great influence on British literature in the late 19th century through his witty social criticism and humor.
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Quote
“When I was young I thought that money was the most important thing in life; now that I am old I know that it is.”
Explanation
In this quote, Oscar Wilde uses irony to reflect on the value of money and how our perception of it changes over time. When he was younger, Wilde may have viewed money as something trivial or unimportant, perhaps driven by ideals of art, love, or intellectual pursuits. However, as he grew older, he acknowledges that money is, in fact, a fundamental part of life—implying that, in the practical world, money is essential for survival, comfort, and freedom. The humor in the quote lies in the circular reasoning: what Wilde once believed to be unimportant is, in his view, now undeniably crucial, but he still presents it as something slightly absurd in its importance.
Wilde’s remark also comments on the changing priorities that come with age, as we gain more experience with the realities of life. While youth might idealize abstract values like love or idealism, maturity often brings a recognition that material needs cannot be easily dismissed, especially in a society where wealth determines access to opportunities and quality of life.
In modern contexts, this quote highlights the tension between idealism and pragmatism—the dreams of youth versus the realities of adulthood. It speaks to the importance of balance, where we recognize that while money may not be the ultimate goal in life, it is a crucial resource that supports our well-being, freedom, and ability to pursue personal ambitions. Wilde’s words encourage reflection on how we view wealth and how our values shift throughout life.
