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It bothers me that I won't live to see the end of the…

“It bothers me that I won't live to see the end of the century, because, when I was young, in St. Louis, I remember saying to Marilyn, my sister by adoption, that that was how long I wanted to live: seventy years.” quote by Harold Brodkey
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“It bothers me that I won't live to see the end of the century, because, when I was young, in St. Louis, I remember saying to Marilyn, my sister by adoption, that that was how long I wanted to live: seventy years.”

Harold Brodkey

About This Quote

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

The speaker laments not living long enough to see the century's end, recalling a youthful desire for a seventy‑year lifespan.

In simple terms: Wishes for a longer life, but feels time is short.

Key Takeaway

Cherish each moment and plan for a fulfilling life.

Themes

mortality time longevity regret family

Mood

contemplative melancholic

Type

personal reflective

When to use this quote

  • health decisions
  • family conversations
  • legacy building
  • personal goal setting

Key Concepts

existentialism life planning generational perspective

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does a fulfilling life look like for you?
  • How do you cope with the uncertainty of lifespan?
A Different Perspective

Life expectancy is uncertain; plans may not align with reality.

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