The lapse of ages changes all things - time - language…
“The lapse of ages changes all things - time - language - the earth - the bounds of the sea - the stars of the sky, and everything 'about, around, and underneath' man, except man himself, who has always been and always will be, an unlucky rascal. The infinite variety of lives conduct but to death, and the infinity of wishes lead but to disappointment. All the discoveries which have yet been made have multiplied little but existence.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Change is constant; only humanity remains unchanged, yet desires and discoveries often bring disappointment.
In simple terms: Everything changes except man; desires cause disappointment.
Key Takeaway
Accept constancy, temper expectations.
Themes
change
human nature
desire
disappointment
impermanence
Mood
reflective
melancholic
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- relationship expectations
- career planning
- creative projects
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
philosophy
existentialism
humanism
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you reconcile personal constancy with external change?
- What expectations lead to disappointment?
A Different Perspective
Even if everything changes, personal growth may still be limited by innate flaws.