May You Live in Interesting Times An old Chinese curse?

I have always enjoyed the quote, May you live in interesting times.

Initially, I believed it to be a well-wish, but I later read it was an old Chinese curse. However, extensive research conducted by Quote Investigator suggests that there is no substantial evidence to support the claim that this saying originated as an ancient or modern Chinese curse.

The expression can be traced back to the British diplomatic service in China around 1936. Austen Chamberlain, the earliest known person to label the saying a Chinese curse, played a crucial role in its initial dissemination. However, he credited an unnamed member of the British Foreign Service who had served in China.

Regardless of its Chinese origins or lack thereof, I still appreciate the saying, especially considering the current state of world affairs, which many would consider “interesting” times.

May you live in interesting times.

Credit: Unknown