This quote is a beautiful expression of the human spirit’s resilience and the joy found in simple pleasures. It suggests a life lived fully, embracing prayer and song, reminiscing about old times, and finding humor in the pretentiousness represented by ‘gilded butterflies’ – a metaphor for those who put on airs or try to appear more valuable than they are.

The first part, “So we’ll live,” sets the tone for a life filled with activity and engagement, not merely existing. “And pray, and sing,” suggests spiritual and emotional expression, while “tell old tales” implies a sense of continuity, connection to the past, and the importance of storytelling in human experience.

The phrase “laugh at gilded butterflies” is particularly intriguing. Butterflies are typically symbols of beauty and transformation, but gilding them – adding a superficial layer of gold – could represent artificiality or pretentiousness. Laughing at these ‘gilded butterflies’ thus could mean recognizing and dismissing falseness, superficiality, and pretension.

Applying this quote to today’s world or personal development, it encourages us to live authentically and find joy in simple, meaningful activities. It urges us to connect with our past, express ourselves emotionally and spiritually, recognize and reject superficiality, and above all, keep our sense of humor intact. It’s a reminder that life’s value doesn’t come from ‘gilded’ enhancements or societal approval but from genuine experiences and authentic living.