Temper never mellows with age, and a sharp tongue is the only edged tool that grows keener with constant use

Temper never mellows with age, and a sharp tongue is the only edged tool that grows keener with constant use

Washington Irving was an American author known for his wit and humor, but also for his sharp tongue. He was a master of satire and irony, often using his words to cut through the pretensions of society and expose the flaws of human nature. In his works, Irving often explored the theme of temper and how it can affect a person's character and relationships.

The quote "Temper never mellows with age, and a sharp tongue is the only edged tool that grows keener with constant use" perfectly encapsulates Irving's views on the subject. He believed that a person's temper is a constant, unchanging aspect of their personality that only becomes more pronounced with age. This idea is reflected in many of Irving's characters, who often struggle with their own fiery tempers and sharp tongues.

One of Irving's most famous characters, Rip Van Winkle, is a perfect example of this. Rip is known for his easygoing nature and good humor, but he also has a quick temper that can flare up at a moment's notice. As he grows older, Rip's temper only becomes more pronounced, causing him to clash with those around him and leading to his eventual isolation from society.

Irving himself was known for his sharp wit and cutting remarks, which he used to great effect in his writing. His keen observation of human behavior allowed him to create characters and situations that were both humorous and insightful. Irving understood that a sharp tongue could be a powerful tool, capable of cutting through the lies and illusions that people often hide behind.