Yesterday Quote by Gérard Genette
““What was very stylish yesterday is today very boorish, but the wheel turns, and what today is good-for-nothing will surely melt our hearts tomorrow or the day after. Don't throw out your old epigraphs: they could be useful to your grandchildren, if they still know how to read.””
About This Quote
Source Literary Criticism: Essay on intertextuality, 1970
Trends shift; what is outdated today may become cherished tomorrow, so preserve past works for future value.
In simple terms: Old ideas can become valuable later; keep them.
Key Takeaway
Preserve cultural artifacts for future generations.
Themes
culture
history
change
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- archival work
- education
- family storytelling
Key Concepts
intertextuality
nostalgia
legacy
Questions to Reflect On
- Which outdated ideas might become valuable?
- How to decide what to preserve?
A Different Perspective
Not all past works will be appreciated later.
