Young men preen. Old men scheme

Young men preen. Old men scheme

The phrase "Young men preen. Old men scheme" encapsulates a profound truth about human nature, particularly when viewed through the lens of the late American aphorist Mason Cooley. Cooley was known for his concise and insightful observations on life, love, and the human condition, and this particular aphorism is no exception.

When we consider the idea that young men preen, we are reminded of the exuberance and self-assuredness that often comes with youth. Young men are often eager to show off their physical prowess, their intelligence, or their charm. They may spend hours in front of the mirror perfecting their appearance, or they may boast about their accomplishments in an effort to impress others. This behavior is not necessarily negative; it is simply a natural part of the process of growing up and finding one's place in the world.

On the other hand, old men are said to scheme. This suggests a more calculated and strategic approach to life. As people age, they often become more experienced and wise, and they may rely less on outward displays of bravado and more on careful planning and foresight. Old men may be more likely to think before they act, to consider the long-term consequences of their decisions, and to work behind the scenes to achieve their goals.