In "The Last Unicorn" by Peter S. Beagle, the protagonist reflects on the inevitable changes in the world and the loss of magic symbolized by the disappearance of unicorns. This sentiment conveys a deep understanding that both men and the world have transformed over time, leading to a sense of nostalgia for what once was.
The quote highlights a poignant realization that with the absence of unicorns, a representation of purity and wonder, there is a fundamental shift in humanity's essence. The transformation signifies not only the loss of mythical creatures but also a broader change in human nature, prompting a contemplation of hope, vanity, and the inevitable passage of time.