“Anyone who keeps the ability to see beauty never grows old.”
- July 3, 1883 – June 3, 1924
- Born in the Austro-Hungarian Empire
- Writer, lawyer
- Had a major influence on 20th century literature with works such as “The Metamorphosis,” “The Trial,” and “The Castle”
Quote
“Anyone who keeps the ability to see beauty never grows old.”
Explanation
In this quote, Franz Kafka suggests that the appreciation of beauty has the power to preserve a person’s sense of youthfulness and vitality. The “ability to see beauty” is not just about appreciating aesthetic or superficial beauty, but about maintaining a receptiveness to the wonder and awe that can be found in the world around us. Kafka implies that beauty—whether it is found in nature, art, human relationships, or the small moments of life—has the ability to renew the spirit, keeping it alive and engaged with the world. When we retain our capacity to recognize beauty, we are not weighed down by the passage of time or the disillusionment that often comes with growing older. Instead, we stay connected to the vibrancy of life, regardless of physical aging.
Kafka’s words tap into a deep truth about human experience: the way we perceive the world plays a crucial role in shaping our inner lives. In Kafka’s works, the search for meaning and the struggle to find truth often lead to alienation, disillusionment, or a sense of futility. However, those who can still find beauty, even in the midst of suffering or absurdity, are able to transcend the limitations of their circumstances. In The Metamorphosis, Gregor Samsa’s transformation into an insect might be seen as an extreme example of alienation, but his family’s ability to recognize his humanity—and the beauty of their shared memories—offers a glimpse of hope in a bleak situation. Kafka’s insight suggests that beauty—the ability to perceive life with awe and wonder—is a source of renewal, capable of keeping us connected to a deeper, timeless part of ourselves.
In a modern context, where the pace of life often leads to disconnection and cynicism, Kafka’s quote challenges us to actively cultivate a sense of beauty in our everyday lives. In the midst of stress, disappointment, and aging, the ability to see beauty in the world—whether in art, nature, or human connection—can serve as a form of rejuvenation. This aligns with contemporary ideas of mindfulness and gratitude, which emphasize being present in the moment and finding beauty in the simplest things. By keeping our hearts open to beauty, we protect ourselves from becoming jaded or resigned to the limitations of time. Kafka’s quote serves as a reminder that it is not the years that make us feel old, but the ability to lose sight of the beauty that still exists around us. If we keep our eyes open to the wonders of life, we can maintain the youthfulness of spirit, regardless of the inevitable passage of time.
