Growing old Quote by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
““Something in one's heart takes fright, not at the thought of growing old, not at feeling one's youth used up in this mineral universe, but at the thought that far away the whole world is ageing. The trees have brought forth their fruit; the grain has ripened in the fields; the women have bloomed in their loveliness. But the season is advancing and one must make haste; but the season is advancing and still one cannot leave; but the season is advancing...and other men will glean the harvest.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Little Prince, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, 1943
The quote reflects existential anxiety about the inevitable aging of the world and the urgency to act before time passes.
In simple terms: Fear of the world aging, not personal aging.
Key Takeaway
Act before time runs out.
Themes
mortality
urgency
nature
humanity
Mood
contemplative
urgent
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- agricultural cycles
- personal deadlines
- career milestones
- environmental stewardship
Key Concepts
existentialism
temporal awareness
impermanence
Questions to Reflect On
- How does recognizing global aging change personal priorities?
- What actions can you take now to honor the season?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook individual agency in shaping outcomes.
