Men are but children of a larger growth, Our appetites as apt to change as theirs, And full as craving too, and full as vain.
John DrydenRead
He look'd in years, yet in his years were seen A youthful vigor, and autumnal green.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects the coexistence of youthful energy and the wisdom of age.
In this quote by John Dryden, the speaker observes a person who appears aged yet embodies a youthful vigor. This juxtaposition highlights the complexity of human experience, where age may bring physical signs of maturity, yet an inner vitality and spirit can remain vibrant and youthful, suggesting that life's essence is not solely defined by one's years.
Themes
YouthAgeVigorWisdomExperience
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech on aging gracefully, this quote can emphasize the importance of maintaining inner vitality.
More from John Dryden
All quotes βOf no distemper, of no blast he died, _x000D_ But fell like autumn fruit that mellow'd long: _x000D_ Even wonder'd at, because he dropp'd no sooner. _x000D_ Fate seem'd to wind him up for fourscore years; _x000D_ Yet freshly ran he on ten winters more; _x000D_ Till like a clock worn out with eating time, _x000D_ The wheels of weary life at last stood still.
John DrydenRead
Or hast thou known the world so long in vain?
John DrydenRead
Shame on the body for breaking down while the spirit perseveres.
John DrydenRead
Love reckons hours for months, and days for years; and every little absence is an age.
John DrydenRead
And write whatever Time shall bring to pass_x000D_ _x000D_ With pens of adamant on plates of brass.
John DrydenRead
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