Meaning: The quote by Harold Brodkey expresses a poignant sentiment about the passage of time and the limitations of human existence. Brodkey's lament about not living to see the end of the century reflects a deep sense of regret and longing for a future that he will not be able to experience. This quote is significant because it captures the universal human experience of grappling with mortality and the desire to witness the unfolding of history and the world.

Harold Brodkey was an American writer known for his introspective and often autobiographical style of writing. His works often delved into themes of memory, mortality, and the passage of time, and this quote encapsulates these themes in a deeply personal and introspective manner. Brodkey's expression of regret at not being able to witness the turn of the century reflects a profound sense of loss and the awareness of one's own mortality.

The quote also alludes to a conversation Brodkey had with his sister, Marilyn, in which he expressed his desire to live for seventy years. This adds a layer of poignancy to the quote, as it suggests that Brodkey had a specific vision for the length of his life, and the realization that he will not live to see the end of the century represents a profound disappointment for him.

In a broader context, the quote can be interpreted as a meditation on the passage of time and the transience of human existence. The turn of the century is a significant milestone that marks the end of one era and the beginning of another. Brodkey's lament about not being able to witness this transition reflects a longing for continuity and a sense of connection to the future.

The quote also raises existential questions about the significance of individual lives within the grand sweep of history. Brodkey's wistful desire to witness the end of the century speaks to a fundamental human impulse to seek meaning and significance in the face of mortality. The quote can be seen as a reflection of Brodkey's contemplation of his own place in the world and his longing to be a part of a future that he will never know.

In conclusion, Harold Brodkey's quote captures a profound sense of longing and regret about the passage of time and the limitations of human existence. It reflects universal themes of mortality, memory, and the desire for continuity. Brodkey's poignant expression of regret at not living to see the end of the century resonates with readers as a deeply personal and introspective reflection on the human experience.