Most men are rather stupid, and most of those who are not stupid are, consequently, rather vain

Most men are rather stupid, and most of those who are not stupid are, consequently, rather vain

In the context of A.E. Housman, the quote "Most men are rather stupid, and most of those who are not stupid are, consequently, rather vain" can be interpreted in a few different ways. Housman was a poet and scholar known for his pessimistic and cynical views on life, which often came through in his work. This quote reflects his belief that the majority of people are not particularly intelligent, and those who do possess intelligence often become arrogant and self-absorbed as a result.

Housman's own life experiences may have influenced his perspective on human nature. He was a highly educated man who excelled in his studies, but he also faced personal struggles and disappointments. This could have led him to view the world through a lens of cynicism and skepticism, believing that most people were not capable of understanding or appreciating the deeper truths of life.