“I had rather have a fool to make me merry than experience to make me sad and to travel for it too!”
- April 26, 1564 – April 23, 1616
- Born in England
- Playwright, poet, actor
- Wrote many masterpieces such as “Hamlet,” “Romeo and Juliet,” and “Macbeth,” and had a great influence on English literature
Quote
“I had rather have a fool to make me merry than experience to make me sad and to travel for it too!”
Explanation
This quote from Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night reflects a lighthearted and somewhat carefree attitude toward life. “I had rather have a fool to make me merry” expresses the speaker’s preference for someone who brings joy and laughter, even if they may lack wisdom, over the “experience” that often comes with the sorrow or hardships of life. The phrase “experience to make me sad” suggests that the wisdom gained through life’s struggles often carries emotional weight, and the speaker finds that a fool’s simplicity and humor are more desirable than the painful lessons of experience. The addition of “to travel for it too” emphasizes the unnecessary burden of seeking out hardship when a more joyful, carefree path could be chosen.
In modern contexts, this quote can resonate with the idea that happiness is often found in simplicity and that sometimes, the pursuit of wisdom or experience can lead to disillusionment or sadness. The contrast between laughter and wisdom is a common theme in today’s world, where people might choose to avoid difficult or painful experiences in favor of seeking joy, entertainment, or lightheartedness. For example, many people might prefer engaging in entertainment or fun activities to escape the weight of life’s challenges.
Ultimately, this quote encourages embracing joy and humor, even at the expense of deeper, more serious experiences. It suggests that laughter and happiness can be more valuable than the lessons that come with hardship, highlighting a preference for the lighter side of life, especially when it offers emotional relief without the cost of sadness.
