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Surely the lives of the old are briefer than the young.

“Surely the lives of the old are briefer than the young.” quote by Robert Lowell
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““Surely the lives of the old are briefer than the young.””

Robert Lowell

About This Quote

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

Ages differ in length; older lives feel shorter compared to youthful spans.

In simple terms: Old lives seem brief compared to youth.

Key Takeaway

Value time at any age.

Themes

mortality time perspective

Mood

reflective melancholic

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • elderly care
  • intergenerational dialogue
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

life expectancy generational contrast

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does age affect your sense of urgency?
  • What does “brief” mean to you?
A Different Perspective

Life expectancy varies, but meaning isn’t time‑bound.

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