Meaning: The quote "Excess on occasion is exhilarating. It prevents moderation from acquiring the deadening effect of a habit" is attributed to W. Somerset Maugham, an English playwright, novelist, and short-story writer. This thought-provoking statement touches upon the balance between indulgence and restraint in life and the potential consequences of excessive moderation.

Maugham's quote suggests that occasional excess can be invigorating, serving as a counterbalance to the potential monotony and dulling impact of constant moderation. In essence, he is highlighting the idea that moderation, when taken to an extreme, can itself become a habit that dulls our experiences and emotions. By embracing occasional excess, we can disrupt this cycle and inject a sense of excitement and vitality into our lives.

The concept of excess as exhilarating is an intriguing one, as it challenges the commonly held belief that moderation is always the key to a balanced and fulfilling life. While moderation certainly has its place in promoting health and well-being, Maugham's quote encourages us to consider the potential downsides of excessive moderation. It suggests that by constantly adhering to strict limits and self-imposed restraints, we may inadvertently stifle our capacity for joy, spontaneity, and adventure.

Moreover, Maugham's assertion prompts us to reevaluate our understanding of habits and their impact on our lives. While habits are often associated with routine and predictability, the quote suggests that moderation can itself become a habit—one that numbs us to the intensity of life's experiences. By occasionally embracing excess, we disrupt the potential deadening effect of this habitual moderation, allowing ourselves to fully engage with the richness and unpredictability of life.

It's important to note that Maugham's perspective on excess and moderation can be interpreted in various ways, depending on individual beliefs and experiences. For some, the idea of occasional excess may evoke thoughts of indulgence and recklessness. However, Maugham's quote seems to advocate for a more nuanced understanding of these concepts, emphasizing the importance of balance and the potential benefits of stepping outside the boundaries of strict moderation from time to time.

From a psychological standpoint, the quote may also resonate with the concept of "hedonic adaptation," which refers to the tendency for humans to quickly adapt to positive or negative changes in their lives, returning to a relatively stable level of happiness or satisfaction. In this context, excessive moderation could be seen as a potential contributor to this adaptation, as the consistent adherence to limits and boundaries may lead to a diminishing sensitivity to pleasurable experiences.

In conclusion, W. Somerset Maugham's quote "Excess on occasion is exhilarating. It prevents moderation from acquiring the deadening effect of a habit" offers a thought-provoking perspective on the interplay between excess and moderation in our lives. By challenging the assumed virtues of strict moderation and advocating for the occasional embrace of excess, Maugham encourages us to consider the potential drawbacks of excessive restraint and the revitalizing effects of stepping outside those boundaries. Ultimately, his words prompt us to reflect on the role of habits, the pursuit of balance, and the dynamic nature of human experience.