---
title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: We may seem competent, but by the end of…"
description: "\"We may seem competent, but by the end of next century there will be new deserts, new ruins.\" — Edward Bond"
image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/332/edward-bond-13025_century_we-may-seem-competent-but-by-the-end-of_926099.jpg"
---

#  We may seem competent, but by the end of next century…

![“We may seem competent, but by the end of next century there will be new deserts, new ruins.” quote by Edward Bond](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/332/edward-bond-13025_century_we-may-seem-competent-but-by-the-end-of_926099.jpg)   [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/332/edward-bond-13025_century_we-may-seem-competent-but-by-the-end-of_926099.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/332/edward-bond-13025_century_we-may-seem-competent-but-by-the-end-of_926099.jpg)

> “We may seem competent, but by the end of next century there will be new deserts, new ruins.”

[Edward Bond](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/edward-bond/)

## About This Quote

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

Human competence is fleeting; future will bring new challenges and ruins.

**In simple terms:** We may be capable now, but new problems will arise.

Key Takeaway

Prepare for change and adapt continuously.

Themes

impermanence future challenge environment

Mood

cautionary somber

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

- urban planning
- policy making
- education reform

Key Concepts

societal decay technological change ecological crisis

Questions to Reflect On

- How can societies stay resilient?
- What future deserts might we create?

A Different Perspective

Focusing only on present competence can breed complacency.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★   No ratings yet

[Ruins](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/ruins/)

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