Meaning: This quote by Charles Colton, an English cleric and writer, encapsulates the idea that individuals are constantly in a state of change and progression. The quote suggests that those who possess goodness will naturally continue to improve, while those who exhibit negative qualities will inevitably deteriorate. Colton also emphasizes the dynamic nature of virtue, vice, and time, asserting that they are perpetually in motion and never remain static.

The first part of the quote, "He that is good, will infallibly become better," implies that individuals who embody positive traits and virtues will continue to develop and enhance these qualities over time. This idea aligns with the concept of personal growth and self-improvement. It suggests that goodness begets further goodness, and individuals who possess virtuous qualities will naturally strive to cultivate and strengthen these attributes. This notion is reflective of the belief in the inherent potential for progress and development within individuals who uphold moral and ethical principles.

Conversely, the second part of the quote, "he that is bad, will as certainly become worse," conveys the idea that individuals who exhibit negative traits or engage in morally questionable behavior will inevitably deteriorate further along this path. This perspective aligns with the concept of moral decay and the notion that indulging in vices and negative behaviors leads to a downward spiral. It suggests that individuals who perpetuate negative qualities or engage in harmful actions are likely to experience a decline in their moral character and overall well-being.

The concluding statement, "for vice, virtue and time are three things that never stand still," underscores the dynamic and ever-changing nature of human character and the passage of time. This assertion highlights the inevitability of change and the continuous evolution of individuals' moral and ethical dispositions. It implies that virtue and vice are not static states but rather dynamic forces that are subject to transformation and progression over time. Additionally, the inclusion of "time" in this statement serves to emphasize the overarching influence of temporal progression on the development of human character and morality.

Charles Colton, the author of this quote, was known for his wit and clever aphorisms. His works often reflected his observations on human nature, morality, and society. Through this particular quote, Colton offers a succinct and thought-provoking commentary on the dynamics of human character and the inevitability of change. The quote serves as a reminder of the fluid and evolving nature of virtue and vice, as well as the impact of time on individual moral development.

In conclusion, Charles Colton's quote succinctly encapsulates the dynamic nature of human character and the influence of virtue, vice, and time on individual progression. It underscores the concepts of personal growth, moral decay, and the ever-changing nature of human morality. This quote serves as a poignant reflection on the inevitability of change and the perpetual motion of human character and virtue.