Skip to content

Age Quote by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

“Truths that startled the generation in which they were first announced become in the next age the commonplaces of conversation; as the famous airs of operas which thrilled the first audiences come to be played on hand-organs in the streets.” quote by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
Download Open image
“Truths that startled the generation in which they were first announced become in the next age the commonplaces of conversation; as the famous airs of operas which thrilled the first audiences come to be played on hand-organs in the streets.”

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

About This Quote

Source Poem: "The Song of Hiawatha", 1855

Ideas once radical become ordinary over time, as cultural shifts turn groundbreaking concepts into everyday talk.

In simple terms: New ideas become normal.

Key Takeaway

Recognize that novelty fades; stay open to fresh perspectives.

Themes

cultural change innovation history perception

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • technology adoption
  • fashion trends
  • political rhetoric
  • artistic styles

Key Concepts

social diffusion norm formation cultural evolution

Questions to Reflect On

  • Which modern ideas might become tomorrow’s norms?
  • How do we preserve valuable innovations?
A Different Perspective

Not all once ideas survive; some fade despite initial hype.

4.8 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Explore all 755 Henry Wadsworth Longfellow quotes

More Age quotes

Browse all 18,949 Age quotes