Meaning: This quote by J. Priestley reflects on the impact of living in a society dominated by advertisements and the idealized images of the perfect life that are constantly presented to us. In a world where we are bombarded with images of supposed perfection, whether it be in terms of appearance, lifestyle, or material possessions, it is easy to become disillusioned and disheartened by the unattainable standards that are set before us.

Living in an age of advertisement implies that we are surrounded by marketing messages and commercial influences at every turn. Whether it's through traditional media such as television, magazines, and billboards, or through digital platforms such as social media and online advertisements, the constant barrage of idealized images and messages can have a profound impact on our perceptions of reality.

The phrase "perpetually disillusioned" suggests that this constant exposure to idealized lifestyles and products leads to a sense of disappointment and disenchantment. Instead of feeling inspired or uplifted by the images and messages we encounter, we are left feeling disillusioned as we struggle to measure up to the unattainable standards that are presented to us.

"The perfect life is spread before us every day" highlights the pervasive nature of these idealized representations. Whether it's the image of a flawless, airbrushed model promoting a beauty product or the portrayal of a luxurious lifestyle associated with a particular brand, the notion of perfection is constantly presented to us as something within reach, yet ultimately remains elusive.

The phrase "but it changes and withers at a touch" suggests the ephemeral and fragile nature of these idealized images. They may seem perfect and unattainable, but upon closer examination, they are revealed to be transient and susceptible to crumbling under scrutiny. This can lead to a sense of disillusionment and disappointment as we realize that the perfect life portrayed in advertisements is ultimately unattainable and fleeting.

J. Priestley's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of living in a consumer-driven society where advertisements play a significant role in shaping our perceptions and desires. It invites us to question the authenticity and sustainability of the idealized images and lifestyles that are presented to us, and to consider the impact of this perpetual disillusionment on our well-being and sense of self-worth.

In conclusion, this quote from J. Priestley captures the pervasive influence of advertisements and the disillusionment that can result from the constant exposure to idealized images of the perfect life. It serves as a critical reflection on the impact of living in a consumer-driven society and prompts us to consider the implications of perpetually being presented with unattainable standards of perfection.