He was always late on principle, his principle being that punctuality is the thief of time

He was always late on principle, his principle being that punctuality is the thief of time

Oscar Wilde, the renowned Irish playwright, poet, and author, was known for his wit, charm, and unconventional views on life. One of his most famous quotes, "He was always late on principle, his principle being that punctuality is the thief of time," perfectly encapsulates Wilde's unique perspective on time management and societal norms.

Wilde believed that punctuality was overrated and that adhering strictly to schedules and deadlines stifled creativity and spontaneity. He saw time as a fluid and subjective concept that should be enjoyed and savored rather than rigidly controlled. For Wilde, being fashionably late was not just a habit but a deliberate choice to rebel against the constraints of a society obsessed with efficiency and productivity.

In Wilde's eyes, punctuality was a form of tyranny that robbed individuals of the freedom to live in the moment and embrace the unexpected. By deliberately arriving late to appointments, meetings, and social gatherings, Wilde was making a statement about the value of leisure, pleasure, and self-expression. He believed that true artistry and inspiration could not be rushed or forced but needed to unfold organically in its own time.

Wilde's penchant for tardiness was not just a personal quirk but a reflection of his larger philosophy of aestheticism and decadence. He saw beauty and pleasure as the highest ideals in life and believed that art should be created for its own sake, without concern for practicality or utility. By being fashionably late, Wilde was asserting his individuality and asserting his right to live by his own rules, regardless of societal expectations.