Meaning: The quote "We were young, we were merry, we were very, very wise, And the door stood open at our feast, When there passed us a woman with the West in her eyes, And a man with his back to the East" by Mary Coleridge captures the essence of youth, joy, wisdom, and the passing of time. Mary Coleridge, an English novelist and poet, was known for her evocative and introspective works that often delved into the complexities of human emotions and experiences.

In this particular quote, Coleridge uses vivid imagery and symbolism to convey a sense of fleeting youth and the passage of time. The opening line, "We were young, we were merry, we were very, very wise," paints a picture of carefree youthful exuberance, filled with joy and a sense of invincibility. It captures the essence of a time in life when one feels alive with possibilities and wisdom gained through experience.

The mention of the open door at their feast symbolizes the abundance and opportunity that lay before them, the potential for growth and exploration. However, the arrival of a woman with the West in her eyes and a man with his back to the East introduces a shift in the tone of the passage. This imagery suggests the inevitability of change and the passing of time. The woman with the West in her eyes may symbolize the allure of the unknown, the pull of new experiences and adventures, while the man with his back to the East could represent a reluctance to face the inevitable changes and challenges that lie ahead.

This quote encapsulates the bittersweet realization that youth is ephemeral and that time waits for no one. It speaks to the universal experience of growing older and the wistful reflection on the passage of time. The juxtaposition of youth and wisdom, merriment and introspection, creates a poignant contrast that resonates with readers on a deeply personal level.

Mary Coleridge's writing often explored themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, and this quote is a testament to her ability to distill complex emotions into evocative and thought-provoking prose. It invites contemplation on the transient nature of youth and the inevitability of change, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

In conclusion, Mary Coleridge's quote "We were young, we were merry, we were very, very wise, And the door stood open at our feast, When there passed us a woman with the West in her eyes, And a man with his back to the East" beautifully captures the fleeting nature of youth and the passage of time. Through vivid imagery and symbolism, Coleridge conveys the bittersweet realization of growing older and the inevitable changes that accompany it. Her ability to evoke deep emotions and introspection through her words cements her legacy as a skilled and insightful writer.

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