Meaning: This quote by Thomas Mann, a renowned German writer, reflects his appreciation for the simple, ordinary, and unassuming aspects of life. Mann, known for his complex and introspective literary works, expressed a profound fondness for the "fair-haired and the blue-eyed, the bright children of life, the happy, the charming and the ordinary." In these words, Mann celebrates the beauty and joy found in the everyday, in contrast to the complexities and depths often associated with his writing.

Throughout his literary career, Mann delved into the intricacies of human nature, exploring themes of alienation, desire, and the human condition. His works often grappled with philosophical and existential questions, delving into the depths of the human psyche. However, this quote reveals a different aspect of Mann's perspective—one that finds solace and admiration in the simplicity and innocence of ordinary life.

Mann's reference to "the fair-haired and the blue-eyed" can be seen as a metaphor for the purity and innocence embodied by children, who often symbolize a sense of unspoiled joy and simplicity. By expressing his deepest and most secret love for these qualities, Mann unveils a softer, more tender side of his persona, one that finds beauty in the unadorned and unpretentious aspects of existence.

The phrase "the bright children of life" further emphasizes Mann's admiration for the vivacity and exuberance found in the everyday experiences of life. It conveys an appreciation for the inherent optimism and vitality that can be discovered in the mundane and ordinary moments, rather than in the grand or extraordinary.

Likewise, the mention of "the happy, the charming and the ordinary" encapsulates Mann's affection for the unassuming and unostentatious components of life. This declaration of love for the unremarkable and the commonplace reflects a deep sense of appreciation for the simple pleasures and unassuming beauty that can often be overlooked in the pursuit of grandeur and profundity.

Mann's choice of words in this quote unveils a sense of vulnerability and tenderness, as he confesses his deepest and most secret love for these unassuming qualities. It humanizes the renowned writer, offering a glimpse into the softer, more intimate aspects of his character, which may not always be evident in his complex and introspective literary works.

In essence, this quote by Thomas Mann serves as a gentle reminder to cherish the simple and ordinary aspects of life, to find joy and beauty in the unadorned and unassuming, and to recognize the profound significance of the everyday experiences that shape our existence. It invites us to embrace the brightness, charm, and happiness found in the unremarkable and the commonplace, and to celebrate the ordinary with the same reverence and affection as we do the extraordinary.