Almost all men improve on acquaintance

Almost all men improve on acquaintance

"André Maurois, a French author and biographer, once famously said, “Almost all men improve on acquaintance.” This statement speaks to the idea that as we get to know someone better, we often discover hidden depths and qualities that we may not have initially seen. Maurois believed that people have the capacity to grow and develop over time, and that our initial impressions of someone may not always be accurate.

In the context of Maurois’ own life and work, this quote can be seen as a reflection of his belief in the power of human connection and understanding. As a biographer, Maurois spent much of his career delving into the lives of others, seeking to understand their motivations, struggles, and triumphs. Through his writing, he sought to illuminate the complexities of human nature and the ways in which people can change and evolve over time.

Maurois’ own life story is a testament to the idea that people can improve on acquaintance. Born Emile Salomon Wilhelm Herzog in 1885, Maurois reinvented himself as a writer and thinker, adopting a new identity that reflected his passion for literature and philosophy. Throughout his life, he continued to grow and evolve, exploring new ideas and perspectives in his writing and engaging with a wide range of intellectual and artistic influences.