This quote is a witty commentary on the transient nature of trends and the speed at which what’s considered “modern” can become outdated. The danger Wilde refers to is the risk of becoming irrelevant or out of touch when the things we’ve adopted as modern or trendy fall out of favor.

In essence, the quote suggests that if we cling too tightly to the current trends or ideas, we risk being left behind when those trends inevitably change. It’s a reflection on the rapid pace of societal change and a reminder of the perils of becoming too attached to the “new” and “now”.

Applying this to today’s world, we live in an era of rapid technological advancements and changing social norms. What’s considered cutting-edge or trendy can become antiquated in a matter of months. For instance, a smartphone model can be viewed as outdated within a year of its release due to the introduction of a newer model.

In terms of personal development, this quote could be interpreted as a caution against becoming too complacent or rigid in our ways of thinking. Instead of clinging to current knowledge or skills, we should strive for continuous learning and adaptability. We should be open to new ideas, but also understand the value of timeless wisdom and principles.

In a broader sense, the quote encourages us to strike a balance between embracing the new and respecting the old. We should appreciate the modern but not be enslaved by it. We should be aware of the latest trends, but not let them define us. We should strive to be current, but not at the cost of losing our enduring values and principles.