What is human life? The first third a good time; the rest remembering about it.
This quote suggests that human life can be divided into two distinct parts: the first third, which is characterized by enjoyment and discovery, and the remaining two thirds, which are spent reminiscing about the past. Essentially, it reflects on the nature of human life as a journey that begins with an exploration of the world and oneself, followed by a longer period of reflection and nostalgia.
The “first third” could be interpreted as childhood and young adulthood, where one is often more carefree, open to new experiences, and less burdened by responsibilities. This is a time of growth, learning, and enjoyment – a ‘good time’ as Twain puts it.
The “rest” of life, according to Twain, is spent “remembering about it.” This could mean that as we age, we spend more time looking back on our past experiences, achievements, and mistakes. It might be due to a longing for the past or an attempt to make sense of our life journey. It could also be a commentary on how society often places a high value on youth and its associated experiences.
Applying this to today’s world or personal development, it could be a reminder to live in the present and make the most of each stage of life. In a society that’s increasingly future-oriented, where success is often measured by achievements and material accumulation, this quote could serve as a reminder to appreciate the journey, not just the destination. It suggests that we should value and enjoy our current experiences, rather than constantly looking back with nostalgia or forward with anticipation.
Moreover, it could also be seen as a prompt to create a life that we won’t just look back on with fondness, but also live in a way that continues to be fulfilling and enjoyable. It emphasizes the importance of creating and cherishing meaningful moments throughout our lives, not just in our early years. This could be a call to lifelong learning, maintaining curiosity, seeking new experiences, and building and maintaining relationships, so that the ‘rest’ of our lives is as rich as the ‘first third’.
