Meaning:
The quote "Love makes those young whom age doth chill, and whom he finds young keeps young still" by William Cartwright, a 17th-century English dramatist, encapsulates the timeless and enduring nature of love. In this profound and succinct statement, Cartwright captures the transformative power of love, suggesting that it has the ability to defy the effects of aging and perpetuate youthfulness.
At its core, the quote speaks to the rejuvenating influence of love on individuals. Cartwright's use of the word "chill" to describe the effects of age conveys a sense of coldness and stagnation that can accompany the passage of time. However, he also suggests that love has the remarkable ability to counteract these effects, effectively restoring a sense of youthfulness to those who experience it.
The first part of the quote, "Love makes those young whom age doth chill," implies that love has the capacity to reverse the impact of aging, infusing individuals with a renewed sense of vitality and energy. This notion aligns with the common belief that being in love can bring about a sense of youthful exuberance, often described as feeling "young at heart." It suggests that love has the power to rekindle a zest for life and to mitigate the physical and emotional toll that aging can take on individuals.
The second part of the quote, "and whom he finds young keeps young still," further delves into the idea that love has the ability to perpetuate youthfulness. Here, Cartwright suggests that love has a preservative quality, allowing those who are in its embrace to maintain their youthful spirit and outlook on life. This notion speaks to the enduring and timeless nature of love, hinting at its ability to sustain and nurture the youthfulness of those who are touched by its influence.
Cartwright's elegant and concise phrasing captures the essence of love's transformative power, portraying it as a force that can transcend the limitations of time and age. His words resonate across centuries, conveying a message that remains relevant and poignant in the modern era.
In the context of contemporary society, the quote serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of love and its potential to bring joy, vitality, and a sense of renewal to individuals. It speaks to the universal longing for connection and the profound impact that love can have on the human experience. Whether in literature, art, or personal relationships, the sentiment expressed by Cartwright continues to resonate with audiences, transcending cultural and temporal boundaries.
Ultimately, Cartwright's quote encapsulates the enduring belief in the redemptive and transformative power of love, offering a timeless reflection on its ability to defy the constraints of age and to perpetuate youthfulness in those who embrace its enchanting embrace.