I balanced all, brought all to mind, the years to come seemed waste of breath, a waste of breath the years behind, in balance with this life, this death.

Meaning

The quote reflects a simple truth about wisdom. It conveys that wisdom grows through experience, while hinting that mistakes teach valuable lessons.

Theme

As a foundational human concern, wisdom appears in many sayings. It matters because people seek clarity and insight, and this quote reminds us that listening brings understanding.

About the Author

A number of familiar sayings are associated with William Butler Yeats. This one stands out due to its focus on wisdom.

Style and Structure

The quote has a balanced structure that highlights its main message. Elements of contrast add clarity.

FAQ

What does this quote mean?
wisdom grows through experience.

Why is it popular?
It speaks clearly about wisdom, making it widely relatable.

How can it be applied?
It encourages us to we learn from our experiences.