“Does character develop over time? In novels, of course it does; otherwise there wouldn’t be much of a story. But in life? I wonder. Our attitudes and opinions change, we develop new habits and eccentricities; but that’s something different, more like decoration. Perhaps character resembles intelligence, except that character peaks a little later: between twenty and thirty, say. And after that, we’re just stuck with what we’ve got. We’re on our own. If so, that would explain a lot of lives, wouldn’t it? And also - if this isn’t too grand a word - our tragedy.”
Comments (View)
The Sense of an Ending by Julian Barnes
At this stage/age in life, I can’t help but think about this over and over again. As terrifying as it is to think that what I am now is essentially what I’m going to be forever, I’m starting to feel more comfortable with that notion as time passes. Maybe it’s resignation of realizing the futility in trying to fight time and nature that comes with being in your mid/late 20’s. Or maybe I’m finding out that I’m awesome. Early 20’s version of me is desperately hoping for the latter.
(via: 52books)
