Diane Arbus: '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.'

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.

In her profound statement, "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," Diane Arbus presents a thought-provoking observation on the nature of human beings. Summarizing the quote in a straightforward manner, it highlights the parallelism between men and children, emphasizing the similarity in their ever-changing appetites and their insatiable desires, ultimately emphasizing the futile nature of these cravings. This quote underscores a universal truth about human existence, reminding us that we are all subject to the whims of our desires and that our pursuit of satisfaction can at times be in vain.However, to add an unexpected and intriguing layer to the discussion, let us introduce the philosophical concept of nihilism. Nihilism is the belief that life is without objective meaning, purpose, or intrinsic value. It questions the significance of the human experience and challenges traditional values and beliefs. By introducing this concept, we can delve deeper into the message conveyed by Diane Arbus' quote, drawing comparisons and contrasts between the two.At first glance, Arbus' quote seems to align with nihilistic thinking. It portrays the futility of our desires and implies that our endless pursuits and cravings are ultimately meaningless. The parallel between men and children reinforces the idea that despite our age and supposed maturity, we are still driven by the same base instincts and incessant desires, which can feel empty and vain when examined closely.Moreover, the notion of vanity highlighted by Arbus also resonates with nihilism. Vanity signifies a self-centeredness and preoccupation with superficial pursuits. Nihilism argues that such self-centered endeavors are ultimately futile, as they do not contribute to any greater purpose or objective meaning. From this perspective, Arbus' quote serves as a stark reminder of the emptiness that accompanies the relentless pursuit of individual desires.However, it is important to note that Diane Arbus' quote does not solely align with nihilism. Rather, it presents a nuanced perspective on the nature of human desires and their inherent fickleness. While it acknowledges the transitory nature of our appetites, it does not necessarily propose that all pursuits are devoid of value. Instead, it invites us to reflect upon the paradoxical nature of our desires and the constant changes they undergo.The quote also highlights the shared experiences of humanity, transcending differences in gender, age, or social status. By referring to men as children of a larger growth, Arbus emphasizes the inherent similarities that bind us all together as humans. Irrespective of our individual pursuits or desires, we are united in our capacity for craving and changeability.In conclusion, Diane Arbus' quote offers a multidimensional view of human nature and the transient nature of our desires. While it hints at a nihilistic interpretation, suggesting the futility of our pursuits and emphasizing the vain nature of our desires, it also prompts us to reflect on the shared experiences and intrinsic similarities that unite us as human beings. It presents an invitation to contemplate the paradoxical nature of our desires, encouraging us to seek a balance between pursuing our cravings and recognizing their ultimate futility in the grand scheme of life.