What you haven't done by thirty you're not likely to do. What you have done you'll do lots more

What you haven't done by thirty you're not likely to do. What you have done you'll do lots more

John Updike, a prolific American author known for his insightful and often controversial works, once famously said, "What you haven't done by thirty you're not likely to do. What you have done you'll do lots more." This quote speaks to the idea that our habits and tendencies are often set by the time we reach a certain age, and that the things we have already accomplished are likely to be repeated in the future.

In the context of John Updike's own life and career, this quote can be seen as particularly relevant. Updike published his first novel, "The Poorhouse Fair," at the age of 28, and went on to become one of the most celebrated writers of his generation. By the time he turned thirty, Updike had already established himself as a talented and ambitious writer, and his subsequent works only solidified his reputation as a literary giant.

Throughout his career, Updike explored themes of love, sex, religion, and the human condition with a keen eye for detail and a sharp wit. His novels, including the Rabbit series and "The Witches of Eastwick," are considered classics of American literature, and have earned him numerous awards and accolades.