Meaning: The quote "A counted number of pulses only is given to us of a variegated, dramatic life. How may we see in them all that is to be seen in them by the finest senses?" is from the English essayist, art and literary critic Walter Pater. Pater is known for his significant contribution to the Aesthetic movement and is often associated with the phrase "art for art's sake." This quote reflects Pater's philosophical approach to life and art, emphasizing the fleeting nature of existence and the importance of perceiving and experiencing life to its fullest.

In this quote, Pater uses the metaphor of "a counted number of pulses" to convey the brevity and limited duration of life. The notion of "pulses" suggests the rhythmic passage of time and the transient nature of human existence. Pater's choice of words conveys a sense of urgency and impermanence, prompting the reader to contemplate the fleeting moments that constitute a "variegated, dramatic life."

The phrase "variegated, dramatic life" suggests that life is diverse, complex, and full of vivid experiences. Pater's use of adjectives such as "variegated" and "dramatic" conveys the richness and intensity of human existence, indicating that life is filled with a multitude of colors, emotions, and events. By using these descriptive terms, Pater invites the reader to consider the depth and complexity of the human experience.

The question that follows, "How may we see in them all that is to be seen in them by the finest senses?" prompts reflection on the capacity for perception and appreciation. Pater challenges the reader to consider how one can fully engage with and comprehend the richness of life using their "finest senses." This suggests an active and immersive approach to experiencing life, one that involves heightened awareness and sensitivity to the world around us.

Pater's inquiry also raises the question of how we can extract the maximum value and meaning from the limited moments we have. By invoking "the finest senses," Pater emphasizes the importance of deep, thoughtful engagement with life, encouraging readers to seek out the profound beauty and significance that may be overlooked in the hustle and bustle of everyday existence.

Overall, Pater's quote encapsulates the Aesthetic movement's emphasis on the sensory and emotional experience of life and art. It encourages individuals to embrace the fleeting nature of existence and to approach life with a heightened awareness and appreciation for its richness and complexity. Pater's words serve as a reminder to savor and fully engage with the moments that make up our lives, urging us to seek out the depth and beauty that lies within the ephemerality of human experience.

In conclusion, Walter Pater's quote "A counted number of pulses only is given to us of a variegated, dramatic life. How may we see in them all that is to be seen in them by the finest senses?" invites contemplation on the brevity and richness of human existence. Through the use of vivid language and thought-provoking questions, Pater encourages readers to embrace life with heightened awareness and sensitivity, acknowledging the fleeting nature of time while seeking out the profound beauty and significance that lies within it. This quote serves as a poignant reminder to cherish and make the most of the moments that constitute our lives, urging us to engage with life in a way that allows us to perceive its depth and complexity.