Quarter of a century Quote by Hilary Mantel
““Once they were young men of esprit, young men of élan. A quarter of a century has passed and they are grey or balding, flabby or paunchy, gone in the fetlock or missing some fingers, but still as arrogant as satraps and with the mental refinement of a gatepost.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel, 2009
A vivid portrait of aging soldiers whose bravado remains despite physical decline and loss.
In simple terms: Old warriors stay proud despite aging bodies.
Respect the wisdom of experience, not just youthful vigor.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- military leadership
- veteran reunions
- historical reenactments
- aging athletes
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does pride change with age?
- What does true refinement look like in old age?
The quote may romanticize arrogance, overlooking humility.