Dangerous old men

I just read this quote — “Beware of an old man in a profession where men usually die young” — and I can see two ways to interpret that.

The nicer interpretation is that a man who has survived a long time in a profession where men usually die young is clearly a badass who knows what he’s doing. Beware of him (if you’re on the other side). He’ll get you.

The less nice interpretation is that a man who has survived a long time in a profession where men usually die young has clearly been hiding behind others, allowing others to take risks while he holds back and stays safe. Beware of him (if you’re on his side). He’ll betray you.