Meaning: This quote by Sextus Propertius, a Roman elegiac poet from the first century BCE, reflects on the way in which time and mortality can impact the perception and remembrance of individuals and their accomplishments. The quote suggests that as time passes and individuals pass away, their significance and impact on the world often become more pronounced and memorable. The idea that "age makes all things greater after their death" implies that the passage of time and the distance from the actual events or accomplishments can lead to a greater appreciation and recognition of their importance.

One interpretation of this quote is that it speaks to the enduring impact of individuals and their legacies. In life, individuals may not always receive the recognition or appreciation they deserve for their contributions, but as time passes and they become part of history, their names and accomplishments may become more widely acknowledged and celebrated. This can be seen in the way that historical figures, artists, writers, and other influential individuals often gain greater recognition and appreciation long after their deaths.

The second part of the quote, "a name comes to the tongue easier from the grave," further emphasizes the idea that the passage of time and distance from the living world can lead to a heightened remembrance of individuals. When someone has passed away, there is often a sense of reverence and respect for their memory, and their name may indeed come to the tongue more easily as people reflect on their lives and contributions. This can be observed in the way that individuals are often commemorated through monuments, memorials, and other forms of remembrance long after their deaths.

The quote also raises questions about the nature of fame, recognition, and the passage of time. It suggests that recognition and appreciation may not always be immediate, and that true recognition often comes with the perspective of time and history. It also speaks to the way in which individuals and their legacies become intertwined with the broader sweep of history, as their contributions become part of the collective memory and heritage of a society.

In a broader sense, the quote can be seen as a reflection on the enduring nature of human achievement and the way in which individuals and their legacies continue to shape and influence the world long after they are gone. It also speaks to the power of memory and remembrance in shaping our understanding of the past and the individuals who have contributed to it.

In conclusion, Sextus Propertius's quote captures the idea that the passage of time and the distance from the living world can lead to a greater appreciation and remembrance of individuals and their accomplishments. It reflects on the enduring impact of human achievement and the way in which individuals and their legacies become a part of history. This quote invites us to consider the way in which time and mortality can shape our understanding of the past and the individuals who have left their mark on the world.