Meaning: This quote by George Bernard Shaw, the renowned Irish playwright, humorously captures the contrast between the priorities of young soldiers and those who have seen more experience in the military. The quote suggests that as soldiers age and gain experience, their focus shifts from weaponry and ammunition to the more essential concern of sustenance and survival.

The image of a soldier's holsters and cartridge boxes serves as a metaphor for the changing needs and perspectives of individuals as they mature and gain wisdom. When a soldier is young and inexperienced, their primary concern is arming themselves with pistols and cartridges, reflecting a focus on firepower and readiness for combat. This aligns with the typical mindset of youth, which often emphasizes strength, aggression, and the desire to prove oneself in challenging situations.

On the other hand, the "old soldier" is characterized by the presence of "grub" – a colloquial term for food – inside their holsters and cartridge boxes. This shift in content symbolizes a practical and pragmatic approach that comes with experience. The seasoned soldier recognizes the importance of sustaining themselves in the field, understanding that without nourishment, all the weapons and ammunition in the world are of little use.

The quote not only provides a witty observation about the changing priorities of soldiers but also conveys a broader message about the evolution of priorities and values as individuals mature. It speaks to the universal truth that as people grow older and accumulate life experiences, their perspectives and priorities often undergo a significant transformation.

In a broader context, the quote can be interpreted as a commentary on the evolving nature of human priorities. It suggests that as individuals progress through life, they often transition from a focus on superficial or immediate concerns to a deeper understanding of the fundamental necessities for survival and well-being. This transition reflects a shift from impulsivity and bravado to wisdom and practicality, as seen in the contrast between the young and old soldiers in the quote.

The quote also touches on the theme of the passage of time and the inevitable process of aging. It highlights the visible markers of experience and age, suggesting that the contents of a soldier's holsters and cartridge boxes can serve as a telltale sign of their level of maturity and experience. This concept can be extrapolated to apply to various aspects of life, where the outward manifestations of an individual's experiences and priorities become apparent over time.

Overall, George Bernard Shaw's quote offers a humorous and insightful reflection on the changing priorities and perspectives that accompany experience and maturity. It serves as a reminder that as individuals progress through life, their focus often shifts from the superficial and immediate to the practical and essential. The quote captures the timeless truth that with age comes wisdom, and the emphasis on sustenance and survival ultimately outweighs the allure of weaponry and bravado.