Meaning: The quote "Love's like the measles - all the worse when it comes late in life" by Douglas Jerrold, the English dramatist, satirist, and writer, offers a poignant comparison between love and the disease measles. Douglas Jerrold (1803-1857) was known for his wit and humor, and this quote reflects his ability to use clever analogies to convey deeper meanings.

At first glance, the comparison between love and measles might seem unusual or even humorous. However, when examined more closely, the quote reveals a profound observation about the nature of love and the impact of experiencing it later in life.

The analogy of love to measles suggests that, like the disease, love can be particularly intense and overwhelming when it occurs later in life. Measles is known for being more severe when contracted by adults, and similarly, the quote implies that love can be more potent and impactful when it arises in the later stages of life.

The comparison also hints at the idea that experiencing love late in life can have both positive and negative implications. On one hand, it may be seen as a powerful and transformative experience that brings new vitality and joy. On the other hand, it could also be interpreted as a challenging and disruptive force, much like an unexpected illness that arrives when one is less equipped to handle it.

In a broader sense, the quote may also speak to the idea that love, like measles, can have a lasting impact on an individual. Just as measles can leave a person weakened or scarred, love, particularly when it arrives unexpectedly later in life, can have a profound effect on one's emotions, perspectives, and overall well-being.

Furthermore, the quote could be interpreted as a commentary on the societal expectations and norms surrounding love and relationships. In many cultures, there is an implicit assumption that individuals should find love and establish relationships earlier in life. The quote challenges this notion by suggesting that love can be just as powerful and meaningful, if not more so, when it arrives later in life, defying conventional expectations and stereotypes.

In literature and art, the theme of love coming late in life has been explored in various forms, often depicting the complexities and nuances of such experiences. Whether in novels, films, or poetry, the idea of late-life love has been a source of inspiration for artists and creators, reflecting the universal relevance of Jerrold's quote.

In conclusion, Douglas Jerrold's quote "Love's like the measles - all the worse when it comes late in life" offers a thought-provoking comparison that invites reflection on the nature of love, its timing, and its impact. Through the analogy of measles, Jerrold encapsulates the potential intensity and transformative power of love when it arrives later in life, challenging conventional assumptions and highlighting the enduring significance of such experiences.