Obsessed by a fairy tale, we spend our lives searching for a magic door and a lost kingdom of peace.
Eugene O'NeillRead
When you're 50 you start thinking about things you haven't thought about before. I used to think getting old was about vanity - but actually it's about losing people you love. Getting wrinkles is trivial.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Aging brings new reflections on loss and relationships rather than superficial concerns.
This quote by Eugene O'Neill reflects on the profound realizations that come with age. As one turns 50, the focus shifts from the physical aspects of aging, such as vanity and wrinkles, to more significant emotional challenges, particularly the loss of loved ones. It emphasizes that the deep impact of aging lies in the reflection on relationships and the inevitable farewells we face, rather than mere physical changes.
Themes
AgingLossRelationshipsReflectionLove
In practice
Example use cases
During a birthday speech, you might share this quote to highlight the importance of cherishing relationships.
More from Eugene O'Neill
All quotes →Writing is my vacation from living.
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I am so far from being a pessimist...on the contrary, in spite of my scars, I am tickled to death at life.
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I have had my dance with Folly, nor do I shirk the blame; I have sipped the so-called Wine of Life and paid the price of shame; But I know that I shall find surcease, the rest my spirit craves, Where the rainbows play in the flying spray, 'Mid the keen salt kiss of the waves.
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There is no present or future-only the past, happening over and over again-now.
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Life is a solitary cell whose walls are mirrors.
Eugene O'NeillRead
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