Perhaps the whole life is merely a long preparation for the moment when we part with it.
The quote expresses a profound meditation on the nature of life and its inevitable conclusion—death. It suggests that every moment we live is, in a way, a shaping and conditioning process leading us toward the final separation from life itself. This perspective invites a reflection on the transient and fragile nature of existence. It challenges us to consider how we spend our time, what values and meanings we assign to our daily actions, and how aware we are of the limited timespan we have. When life is seen as preparation for the inevitable parting, it both casts a shadow on our experiences and, paradoxically, gives them purpose. We might be drawn to find meaning not only in the grand achievements and joys but also in the quiet moments—the preparation itself. It resonates with the idea that mortality frames our understanding of life; knowing that all things come to an end shapes how deeply we experience them. John Banville’s 'The Sea' evokes such themes of memory, loss, and the relentless passage of time. This quote fits seamlessly within that narrative, where the sea can be a metaphor for the inexorable tide of life and death. Ultimately, recognizing life as preparation for parting helps nurture empathy — for ourselves and others — as we share this common human journey towards the eventual farewell.
