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This is a man with an old face, always old... There was…

“This is a man with an old face, always old... There was pathos, in his face, and in his eyes. The early weariness; and sometimes tears in his eyes, Which he let slip unconsciously on his cheek, Or brushed away with an unconcerned hand. There were tears for human suffering, or for a glance Into the…” quote by Edgar Lee Masters
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“This is a man with an old face, always old... There was pathos, in his face, and in his eyes. The early weariness; and sometimes tears in his eyes, Which he let slip unconsciously on his cheek, Or brushed away with an unconcerned hand. There were tears for human suffering, or for a glance Into the vast futility of life, Which he had seen from the first, being old When he was born.”

Edgar Lee Masters

About This Quote

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

An elderly man's face reflects deep sorrow and empathy for human suffering and life's futility.

In simple terms: His old face shows sorrow for suffering and life's emptiness.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate compassion while confronting life's hardships.

Themes

aging empathy existential reflection

Mood

melancholic thoughtful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • memorial services
  • elder care
  • art therapy
  • philosophical discussions
  • writing workshops

Key Concepts

literature human condition philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does his tears reveal about his worldview?
  • How can we balance sorrow with gratitude?
A Different Perspective

Focusing on sorrow may overlook resilience and hope.

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