Logan P. Smith: 'The old know what they want the young are sad and bewildered.'

The old know what they want the young are sad and bewildered.

"The old know what they want; the young are sad and bewildered." This quote by Logan P. Smith captures the essence of a universal truth: the stark dichotomy between the wisdom of age and the uncertainty of youth. At first glance, it seems to highlight the natural progression of life, where experience and knowledge bring clarity of desires, while the young grapple with their own sense of direction and purpose. However, delving deeper, this quote opens up avenues for a broader philosophical exploration - the concept of an eternal cycle of knowledge and ennui.On the surface, the meaning of this quote is straightforward. It illuminates the contrasting mindsets of different generations, emphasizing the discernment that comes with age. The old, having had the advantage of years, possess a clearer understanding of their own needs, wants, and ambitions. Through life's trials and tribulations, they have acquired discernment and honed their desires. In contrast, the young find themselves caught in a whirlwind of emotions, struggling to navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world. They grapple with an array of choices, uncertain of which path to pursue.Beyond this, a deeper contemplation suggests a cyclical pattern. As youth evolves into old age, knowledge and understanding deepen, leading to a clarion call of desires. Yet, in the very pursuit of these desires, a certain level of ennui seeps into the fabric of life. With each new generation, the cycle starts anew – the youth are once again saddened and bewildered, while the old find comfort in their acquired knowledge.This cyclical nature of knowledge and ennui can be compared to the concept of the "fountain of life." Like a fountain, knowledge continuously flows from one generation to the next, shaping and molding the world. However, as this knowledge becomes ingrained in individuals over time, it can also lead to a certain discontent. With clarity comes a longing or a sense of emptiness that propels individuals to yearn for something more, something beyond their immediate grasp.When pondering this concept, it becomes clear that both the old and the young have something valuable to offer. The old provide guidance and wisdom, acting as beacons of knowledge to help steer the younger generation through their journey. Their experiences and insights form a foundation upon which the young can build their own understanding of the world. Conversely, the young, with their boundless energy, enthusiasm, and fresh perspectives challenge and invigorate the old.In essence, the quote by Logan P. Smith not only highlights the contrast between the desires of the old and the youthful confusion but also suggests a cyclical pattern of knowledge and ennui that underpins the human experience. By embracing this understanding, we can tap into the inherent beauty of this eternal ebb and flow, and foster a harmonious relationship between generations that promotes growth, harmony, and collective progress.So, let us strive to bridge the gap between the old and the young, recognizing the mutual benefits they imbue. The old, with their wealth of knowledge, can guide the young towards understanding their own desires, while the young, with their fervor and fresh perspectives, can infuse new life into the weary souls of the old. In this harmonious dance, we can collectively rise above both sadness and bewilderment, embracing the cyclical nature of knowledge and ennui, and finding solace in the enduring quest for meaning and fulfillment.