The clock of life is wound but once, And no man has the…
““The clock of life is wound but once, And no man has the power To tell just when the hands will stop At late or early hour. To lose one's wealth is sad indeed, To lose one's health is more, To lose one's soul is such a loss That no man can restore. The present only is our own, So live, love, toil with a will, Place no faith in "Tomorrow," For the Clock may then be still.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Life is fleeting and unpredictable; material and physical losses are temporary, but loss of one's inner self is irreversible, urging present-focused living.
In simple terms: Live fully now, not in uncertain future.
Key Takeaway
Present action matters more than future hopes.
Themes
mortality
impermanence
values
mindfulness
authenticity
Mood
reflective
urgent
hopeful
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- facing financial crisis
- dealing with illness
- contemplating legacy
- making daily decisions
- seeking purpose
Key Concepts
time
wealth
health
soul
Practical Applications
- personal development
- ethical decision‑making
Questions to Reflect On
- How does focusing on the present change your priorities?
- What does 'soul' represent in your life?
A Different Perspective
Some argue that planning for the future is essential for stability, but this view can overlook the inherent uncertainty of life.