Fred Allen
The Quote in Other Words
Old age is a state of being serene, vast, and all-encompassing, akin to the grandeur of the universe. It is a time of liberation, where death is a comforting and inviting presence.
Explanation of the Quote
This quote speaks to the beauty and freedom that can come with old age. The idea of being “calm” and “expanded” suggests a sense of wisdom and perspective that can only come with a lifetime of experience. The phrase “haughty breadth of the universe” implies a sense of grandeur and importance, as if the elderly person has become a part of something much larger than themselves.
The mention of “delicious near-by freedom of death” may seem morbid, but it actually speaks to the idea that old age can bring a sense of peace and acceptance. The fear of death may no longer hold the same power over someone who has lived a long and fulfilling life. Instead, they may see death as a natural and inevitable part of the cycle of life.
Overall, this quote celebrates the beauty and richness of a life well-lived. It suggests that old age can be a time of great freedom and joy, as one is able to fully embrace the wisdom and perspective that comes with a lifetime of experience.