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In old age the consolation of hope is reserved for the…

“In old age the consolation of hope is reserved for the tenderness of parents, who commence a new life in their children, the faith of enthusiasts, who sing hallelujahs above the clouds; and the vanity of authors, who presume the immortality of their name and writings.” quote by Edward Gibbon
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“In old age the consolation of hope is reserved for the tenderness of parents, who commence a new life in their children, the faith of enthusiasts, who sing hallelujahs above the clouds; and the vanity of authors, who presume the immortality of their name and writings.”

Edward Gibbon

About This Quote

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

Hope comforts the elderly through family, faith, and legacy, but authors may cling to imagined immortality.

In simple terms: Hope comes from loved ones, belief, and lasting works.

Key Takeaway

Cherish relationships and meaningful contributions.

Themes

family faith legacy vanity hope

Mood

reflective nostalgic serene

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • elderly care
  • parenting
  • writing
  • public speaking
  • legacy building

Key Concepts

Existential comfort mortality ego literary ambition

Questions to Reflect On

  • What truly endures beyond our lifetime?
  • How do we balance humility with ambition?
A Different Perspective

Authors may overestimate the permanence of their works.

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