Getting old Quote by Harold Robbins
““I walked over to her. She took my hand. “You’re a fine kid, Frank. There’s something wild and hard inside you that needs gentling, but there’s also something fine and bright inside you. Whatever you do, don’t change. Don’t lose that something that keeps you from being hard and rotten.” She laughed. “I must be getting old,” she said, “to be talking like that.” She took another drink from the table. I was silent. The old dame kind of liked me. “Well?” she asked. “Good-bye,” I said. On an impulse I bent and kissed her cheek. It was old and dry to the touch, like a piece of old paper. She put her hand to her cheek half wonderingly. She thought aloud: “It has been a long time since—” Her words trailed off.””
About This Quote
A mentor figure acknowledges a young person's inner turbulence and potential, urging them to preserve their authentic, compassionate core while resisting hardening.
In simple terms: Guidance on balancing wildness and goodness.
Key Takeaway
Preserve inner kindness.
Themes
growth
self-awareness
mentorship
authenticity
inner conflict
Mood
reflective
hopeful
nostalgic
Type
advice
dialogue
narrative
When to use this quote
- young adult confronting life choices
- mentor-mentee dialogue
- reflection on aging
- intergenerational advice
Key Concepts
identity
empathy
resilience
Practical Applications
- personal development coaching
- literary character analysis
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you nurture your bright side amid challenges?
- What habits prevent you from becoming hardened?
