“With mirth and laughter let old wrinkles come.”
- 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
“With mirth and laughter let old wrinkles come.”
Explanation
This quote from Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice reflects the speaker’s embrace of aging with joy and optimism. The phrase “With mirth and laughter” suggests that the speaker values happiness, laughter, and a positive attitude toward life, even as they grow older. “Let old wrinkles come” acknowledges the inevitability of aging and the physical signs of it, like wrinkles, but the speaker is not troubled by them. Instead, they see mirth and laughter as a way to accept the passage of time and the changes it brings, emphasizing that happiness and a light-hearted approach can make aging feel less burdensome.
In modern contexts, this quote speaks to the value of embracing aging with grace, humor, and joy. It reflects a mindset where physical appearance and the inevitable aging process are not feared or avoided, but accepted with a focus on enjoying life’s journey. The message encourages people to find joy and laughter throughout their lives, regardless of their age, and to live fully in the present moment, rather than being preoccupied with the inevitability of getting older.
Ultimately, this quote promotes the idea that aging doesn’t have to be feared or associated with loss. Instead, mirth and laughter can turn the signs of age into a mark of a life well-lived, full of happiness, laughter, and the wisdom that comes with time. It encourages us to celebrate the natural process of aging rather than dread it.