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Awful Quote by Simone de Beauvoir

“I've always been keenly aware of the passing of time. I've always thought that I was old. Even when I was twelve, I thought it was awful to be thirty. I felt that something was lost. At the same time, I was aware of what I could gain, and certain periods of my life have taught me a great deal…” quote by Simone de Beauvoir
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“I've always been keenly aware of the passing of time. I've always thought that I was old. Even when I was twelve, I thought it was awful to be thirty. I felt that something was lost. At the same time, I was aware of what I could gain, and certain periods of my life have taught me a great deal. But, in spite of everything, I've always been haunted by the passing of time and by the fact that death keeps closing in on us.”

Simone de Beauvoir

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Ethics of Ambiguity, 1947

Awareness of time’s passage creates both dread and motivation for growth.

In simple terms: Time passing haunts and inspires.

Key Takeaway

Embrace mortality to live fully.

Themes

mortality time growth

Mood

thoughtful melancholic

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • career planning
  • creative projects
  • personal development

Key Concepts

existentialism self‑reflection

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does time awareness shape choices?
  • What can you do with limited time?
A Different Perspective

Focusing on death can cause anxiety.

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