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Anyway, those things would not have lasted long. The…

“Anyway, those things would not have lasted long. The experience of the years shows it to me. But Destiny arrived in some haste and stopped them. The beautiful life was brief. But how potent were the perfumes, On how splendid a bed we lay, To what sensual delight we gave our bodies. An echo of the…” quote by C.P. Cavafy
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““Anyway, those things would not have lasted long. The experience of the years shows it to me. But Destiny arrived in some haste and stopped them. The beautiful life was brief. But how potent were the perfumes, On how splendid a bed we lay, To what sensual delight we gave our bodies. An echo of the days of pleasure, An echo of the days drew near me, A little of the fire of the youth of both of us, Again I took in my hands a letter, And I read and reread till the light was gone. And melancholy, I came out on the balcony Came out to change my thoughts at least by looking at A little of the city that I loved, A little movement on the street and in the shops. Translated by Rae Dalven ””

C.P. Cavafy

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The poet reflects on fleeting beauty, sensual pleasure, and melancholy, using memories of love and city life as a backdrop.

In simple terms: Life’s pleasures are brief and bittersweet.

Key Takeaway

Savor moments, accept impermanence.

Themes

beauty pleasure melancholy memory transience

Mood

reflective poignant

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • reading poetry
  • travel
  • relationships
  • art appreciation

Key Concepts

romanticism nostalgia existentialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What fleeting pleasure do you cherish most?
  • How does melancholy shape your appreciation of beauty?
A Different Perspective

May overlook the value of enduring commitments.

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