Astronomy Quote by Vladimir Nabokov
“A thousand years ago five minutes were Equal to forty ounces of fine sand. Outstare the stars. Infinite foretime and Infinite aftertime: above your head They close like giant wings, and you are dead.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: Unpublished verse, date unknown
The quote juxtaposes fleeting human time with vast cosmic scales, urging awe of eternity and humility before death.
In simple terms: Time feels short compared to the universe; we are tiny and mortal.
Key Takeaway
Recognize our briefness and seek meaning beyond self.
Themes
mortality
cosmos
humility
Mood
reflective
humble
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
poetic
When to use this quote
- contemplation of life
- philosophical reflection
- artistic inspiration
- meditation on death
- seeking purpose
Key Concepts
existentialism
scale
impermanence
Questions to Reflect On
- How does recognizing cosmic insignificance affect daily choices?
- What can we do to honor our brief lives?
A Different Perspective
Human perception is limited; poetic language may obscure precise meaning.
![“...under no circumstances would he [Humbert Humbert] have interfered with the innocence of a child, if there was the least risk of a row.” quote by Vladimir Nabokov](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/0f0/vladimir-nabokov-198_children_under-no-circumstances-would-he-humbert_16228.jpg)
