In William Shakespeare's play "Twelfth Night," the character Quinapalus suggests that it is preferable to be a witty fool than a foolish wit. This quote emphasizes the value of cleverness and humor over mere intelligence lacking insight or creativity. A witty fool can entertain and provoke thought, while a foolish wit may lead to misunderstandings and lack of depth in conversation.

The essence of this statement reflects a central theme in the play, where characters often embody various shades of wisdom and folly. Shakespeare uses these contrasting traits to highlight human nature and the complexities of love, identity, and social roles, revealing that true cleverness often lies in understanding oneself and others.