He was always clever, even as a boy, but it is one thing to be clever and another to be wise

He was always clever, even as a boy, but it is one thing to be clever and another to be wise

George R. R. Martin is a renowned author known for his intricate plots, complex characters, and unexpected twists in his works, particularly in his epic fantasy series, A Song of Ice and Fire. Martin's writing style is often praised for its cleverness and ability to keep readers on their toes, but it is important to note that being clever does not necessarily equate to being wise.

In the context of George R. R. Martin, this quote, "He was always clever, even as a boy, but it is one thing to be clever and another to be wise," can be seen as a reflection of the characters he creates in his novels. Many of Martin's characters are indeed clever, using their intelligence and wit to outmaneuver their enemies and achieve their goals. Characters like Tyrion Lannister, Petyr Baelish, and Varys are prime examples of this cleverness, using their cunning and strategic thinking to navigate the dangerous political landscape of Westeros.

However, while these characters may be clever, they often lack wisdom. They make decisions based on short-term gains or personal ambitions, without considering the long-term consequences of their actions. This lack of wisdom can lead to disastrous outcomes, as seen in the series when characters like Cersei Lannister or Euron Greyjoy make reckless decisions that ultimately lead to their downfall.

On the other hand, characters like Jon Snow, Daenerys Targaryen, and Ned Stark are portrayed as wiser individuals, making decisions based on principles and values rather than personal gain. These characters may not always be the most clever or politically savvy, but their wisdom allows them to see the bigger picture and make choices that benefit the greater good.