Meaning: The quote "Youth is ever apt to judge in haste, and lose the medium in the wild extreme" by Aaron Hill, a poet and playwright from the 18th century, offers a profound insight into the nature of youth and its tendency to make impulsive judgments. This quote highlights the impetuous and often reckless nature of youth, suggesting that young people are prone to making quick decisions without considering the middle ground, leading them to embrace extreme viewpoints or actions.

In this quote, the term "youth" refers not only to a person's age but also to a state of mind characterized by inexperience, impulsiveness, and a lack of perspective. Hill suggests that the impulsive nature of youth leads individuals to rush to judgment without thoroughly considering the nuances and complexities of a situation. This impulsive judgment can result in the loss of the "medium," or the middle ground, which represents a balanced and rational approach to decision-making.

The quote also emphasizes the tendency of young people to embrace "the wild extreme," indicating that they may be inclined to adopt radical or extreme positions without fully understanding the consequences. This can lead to a lack of moderation and a failure to appreciate the value of balance and restraint in their thoughts and actions.

Hill's observation about the impulsive nature of youth has enduring relevance and continues to resonate in contemporary society. The impetuosity and idealism of youth often drive individuals to act on their emotions and initial impressions without fully considering the long-term implications of their decisions. This can manifest in various aspects of life, including personal relationships, career choices, and political or social beliefs.

The quote also suggests that the impulsive nature of youth can lead to a lack of patience and a failure to appreciate the importance of taking the time to consider different perspectives and weigh the consequences of one's actions. This impatience and rush to judgment can result in missed opportunities for growth, understanding, and compromise.

Moreover, the quote highlights the contrast between the exuberance and passion of youth and the need for temperance and moderation in thought and action. It serves as a reminder that while the energy and enthusiasm of youth are valuable, they must be tempered with wisdom, prudence, and a willingness to consider the middle ground.

In conclusion, Aaron Hill's quote "Youth is ever apt to judge in haste, and lose the medium in the wild extreme" offers a timeless reflection on the impulsive nature of youth and its tendency to rush to judgment without considering the middle ground. It serves as a reminder for young people to exercise patience, prudence, and an open-minded approach to decision-making, thus avoiding the pitfalls of hasty and extreme judgments.