Meaning: The quote "I'm probably so out of it at my age that I don't know what people think" by Sharon Olds, a celebrated American poet, reflects a sense of detachment and introspection that is characteristic of her work. Sharon Olds is known for her deeply personal and introspective poetry, often exploring themes of family, womanhood, and the human experience with unflinching honesty and vulnerability.

In this quote, Olds seems to be acknowledging her own sense of detachment from the thoughts and opinions of others. At a certain age, she suggests, one may become so removed from the concerns and preoccupations of the wider world that it becomes difficult to discern or understand the thoughts of others. This introspective statement speaks to the idea of aging and the changing perspectives that come with it.

Sharon Olds was born in 1942, and her poetry often reflects the wisdom and reflection that comes with age. Throughout her career, she has delved into the complexities of human emotion and experience, often drawing from her own life and relationships to create evocative and deeply personal poems. Her willingness to explore the most intimate aspects of her own life has earned her both critical acclaim and a devoted readership.

Olds' work is known for its frankness and emotional intensity, and the quote in question exemplifies these qualities. It suggests a certain self-awareness and acceptance of one's own limitations, as well as a willingness to embrace the changes that come with age. Olds' poetry often grapples with the passage of time, the shifting dynamics of relationships, and the ways in which our perceptions of the world and ourselves evolve over the years.

The quote can also be interpreted as a reflection of the isolation that can come with aging. As people grow older, they may find themselves increasingly detached from the concerns and perspectives of younger generations, leading to a sense of being "out of it" in terms of understanding contemporary attitudes and beliefs. Olds' willingness to confront this sense of disconnect speaks to her ability to capture the universal experiences of aging and introspection in her poetry.

Overall, Sharon Olds' quote "I'm probably so out of it at my age that I don't know what people think" offers a poignant reflection on the complexities of aging and the shifting perspectives that come with it. It encapsulates the introspective and deeply personal nature of her poetry, as well as her willingness to confront the universal themes of human experience with honesty and vulnerability.

In conclusion, Sharon Olds' quote serves as a powerful reminder of the wisdom and insight that can come with age, as well as the challenges of remaining attuned to the thoughts and perspectives of others. It is a testament to her ability to capture the nuances of the human experience with grace and authenticity, making her a revered and influential voice in contemporary poetry.