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Endure what life God gives and ask no longer span; Cease…

“Endure what life God gives and ask no longer span; Cease to remember the delights of youth, travel-wearied aged man; Delight becomes death-longing if all longing else be vain.” quote by William Butler Yeats
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“Endure what life God gives and ask no longer span; Cease to remember the delights of youth, travel-wearied aged man; Delight becomes death-longing if all longing else be vain.”

William Butler Yeats

About This Quote

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

Life’s hardships and aging erode youthful joy, turning desire into a longing for death when all else feels futile.

In simple terms: Aging makes joy fade, leading to a death wish.

Key Takeaway

Accept aging, seek meaning beyond youth.

Themes

aging mortality despair

Mood

melancholic reflective

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • elderly reflection
  • grief counseling
  • philosophical writing

Key Concepts

existentialism nihilism temporal change

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you find purpose after youth fades?
  • Can longing coexist with acceptance?
A Different Perspective

Life’s meaning can be found despite aging.

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