“Men shut their doors against a setting sun.”
- April 26, 1564 – April 23, 1616
- Born in England
- Playwright, poet, actor
- Wrote many masterpieces such as “Hamlet,” “Romeo and Juliet,” and “Macbeth,” and had a great influence on English literature
Quote
“Men shut their doors against a setting sun.”
Explanation
This quote from Shakespeare’s The Life of King Henry VIII uses the setting sun as a metaphor for the end of a life or the decline of fortune, suggesting that people often close themselves off or reject things once they are no longer in their prime or useful. The phrase “men shut their doors against a setting sun” implies that when something—be it a person, opportunity, or even a period in life—begins to fade or decline, people tend to withdraw or turn away, much like shutting a door to shut out what is no longer seen as valuable or desirable. It reflects the human tendency to ignore or abandon what is no longer at its peak or to focus on what is growing or flourishing.
In modern contexts, this quote can be interpreted as a comment on how society often discards or neglects things that are no longer youthful, successful, or in demand, whether it be aging individuals, outdated ideas, or declining fortunes. For instance, as people grow older, they may feel rejected by society, which often values youth and vitality over experience and wisdom. Similarly, opportunities or relationships may be abandoned when they no longer seem as profitable or exciting.
Ultimately, this quote highlights the impermanence of fortune and the short-sightedness that can come with focusing only on the rising sun or what is currently in its prime. It encourages reflection on how we treat what is aging, fading, or in decline, reminding us that there is value in things that may not be in their prime but still hold meaning and wisdom.
