In my time, the follies of the town crept slowly among us, but now they travel faster than a stagecoach

In my time, the follies of the town crept slowly among us, but now they travel faster than a stagecoach

Oliver Goldsmith, a renowned Irish writer and poet, was known for his keen observations of society and human nature. In his time, the follies of the town crept slowly among the people, gradually influencing their behavior and attitudes. However, Goldsmith believed that in the modern age, these follies spread much more rapidly, thanks to advancements in technology and communication.

Goldsmith's quote, "In my time, the follies of the town crept slowly among us, but now they travel faster than a stagecoach," reflects his concern about the rapid dissemination of trends and ideas in society. During his lifetime in the 18th century, news and gossip traveled slowly, often spreading through word of mouth or printed publications. However, with the invention of the stagecoach and other modes of transportation, information could be transmitted across long distances in a matter of days or even hours.