Meaning: This quote by Alexander Smith reflects on the idea that the dead hold their secrets and that with time, we will become as knowledgeable as they are but also as silent. The quote suggests that the wisdom and knowledge of the deceased is inaccessible to the living, and that as time passes, we too will become silent and unable to share our experiences and wisdom with future generations.

Alexander Smith was a Scottish poet and essayist who lived in the 19th century. He is known for his reflective and introspective writings, often exploring themes of life, death, and the human experience. In this particular quote, Smith captures the enigmatic nature of death and the limitations of human knowledge.

The first part of the quote, "The dead keep their secrets," implies that death holds mysteries and knowledge that are inaccessible to the living. Despite our curiosity and desire to understand the experiences and wisdom of those who have passed away, the secrets of the dead remain hidden. This notion speaks to the inherent mystery and finality of death, as well as the limits of human understanding.

The second part of the quote, "and in a while we shall be as wise as they - and as taciturn," suggests that as time passes, the living will gain the same wisdom and knowledge as the deceased, but will also become as silent and unable to share that wisdom with future generations. This reflects the cyclical nature of life and death, as well as the inevitability of human mortality. It also emphasizes the idea that each generation holds valuable knowledge and experiences that are ultimately lost with time.

The quote can be interpreted in various ways, depending on one's perspective on life and death. It may prompt reflection on the transient nature of human existence and the importance of cherishing the wisdom and experiences of those who have come before us. It also serves as a reminder of the impermanence of life and the significance of preserving and passing on knowledge and wisdom to future generations.

In a broader sense, the quote can be seen as a meditation on the limitations of human knowledge and the mysteries that remain beyond our understanding. It acknowledges the unknowable aspects of the human experience, particularly in relation to death and what lies beyond.

Overall, Alexander Smith's quote captures the enigmatic and thought-provoking nature of death and the passage of time. It encourages contemplation on the wisdom of the deceased, the inevitability of human mortality, and the value of preserving and sharing knowledge across generations.