Meaning: The quote "When you're 50 you start thinking about things you haven't thought about before. I used to think getting old was about vanity - but actually it's about losing people you love. Getting wrinkles is trivial." by Eugene O'Neill, a prominent dramatist, encapsulates the profound shift in perspective that often accompanies the process of aging. In this evocative statement, O'Neill reflects on the changing priorities and concerns that come with reaching the age of 50, emphasizing the profound emotional impact of losing loved ones and the diminishing significance of superficial aspects such as physical appearance.

As individuals approach 50, they often find themselves contemplating existential questions and grappling with the realities of mortality in ways they may not have done before. O'Neill's assertion that at this age, one begins to think about things previously unconsidered hints at the introspective nature of this stage of life. It suggests a turning point where individuals confront the deeper implications of aging and the passage of time, leading to a reevaluation of their values and priorities.

The dramatist's reflection on the perception of aging as being primarily concerned with vanity highlights a common misconception that many people hold in their younger years. The fear of physical changes and the societal emphasis on youthful appearance can often overshadow the more profound and poignant aspects of growing older. O'Neill's choice of the word "vanity" conveys a sense of superficiality and self-absorption, indicating that he, like many others, once associated aging primarily with the outward signs of getting old.

However, O'Neill's subsequent revelation that getting old is actually about losing people you love serves as a poignant and sobering realization. It underscores the emotional and psychological impact of aging, highlighting the experience of bereavement and the profound sense of loss that often accompanies the passing of time. This shift in focus from external to internal, from the physical to the emotional, reflects a deeper understanding of the human experience and the universal inevitabilities of life.

The dramatist's assertion that getting wrinkles is trivial further emphasizes the diminishing significance of superficial concerns in the face of more profound life experiences. Wrinkles, often associated with aging and considered a marker of the passage of time, are juxtaposed with the weightier matter of losing loved ones. This comparison serves to underscore the relative unimportance of physical appearance in the grander scheme of life, suggesting that the emotional and spiritual dimensions of existence ultimately hold far greater significance.

In conclusion, Eugene O'Neill's quote provides a thought-provoking insight into the shifting perspectives and priorities that come with aging. By acknowledging the emotional impact of losing loved ones and downplaying the significance of superficial concerns, O'Neill offers a poignant reflection on the deeper truths of the human experience. This quote serves as a reminder to prioritize meaningful connections and inner growth over superficial preoccupations, resonating with individuals as they navigate the complexities of aging and the inevitable passage of time.