Meaning: The quote "The young are so old, they are born with their fingers crossed" by Edna St. Vincent Millay reflects a deep insight into the human condition, particularly the idea that youth today often carry the weight of the world on their shoulders from a very early age. Edna St. Vincent Millay was an American poet and playwright who came to prominence during the early 20th century. Known for her lyrical poetry and feminist activism, Millay's work often explored themes of youth, love, and the passage of time. This particular quote captures the paradox of youth being burdened with concerns and worries that are typically associated with older individuals, suggesting a precocious awareness and a sense of skepticism or wariness that belies their tender years.

In today's society, young people are exposed to a myriad of challenges and pressures that previous generations may not have experienced to the same extent. From social media and technology to global political and environmental issues, the modern youth are confronted with an overwhelming amount of information and responsibility. As a result, they are forced to grow up faster and develop a level of maturity and cynicism that was once reserved for adulthood. This premature aging of the young is what Millay poetically captures in her quote, as she observes the world-weary demeanor and guarded optimism of the younger generation.

The act of being "born with their fingers crossed" suggests a sense of hopefulness tinged with skepticism. It implies that even from the moment of their birth, young people are conditioned to approach life with a cautious optimism, mindful of the uncertainties and challenges that lie ahead. This cynicism, though perhaps born out of necessity, speaks to a loss of innocence and an erosion of the carefree nature traditionally associated with childhood. While the idea of youthful optimism and idealism is a common trope, Millay's quote challenges this notion by highlighting the burden that today's youth carry from the very beginning of their lives.

Moreover, the phrase "born with their fingers crossed" also alludes to the idea of luck or superstition, suggesting that young people are hoping for the best but preparing for the worst. This dual posture of hope and wariness reflects the complex mindset of the younger generation, who are keenly aware of the challenges they face and yet still strive for a better future. The quote thus encapsulates the paradox of youth—simultaneously old in their understanding of the world's complexities and young in their hopeful aspirations for change and progress.

In conclusion, Edna St. Vincent Millay's quote "The young are so old, they are born with their fingers crossed" offers a poignant reflection on the contemporary experience of youth. It captures the burden of premature maturity and the complex blend of optimism and skepticism that characterizes the mindset of today's young people. By delving into the profound implications of this quote, we gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and responsibilities that the younger generation faces, and the necessity for society to support and nurture their hopes and aspirations.