In Cormac McCarthy's novel "Suttree," the profound and poetic line reflects on the impact of enduring emotional turmoil over time. The phrase emphasizes the heavy toll that internal struggles, such as anger and resentment, can exact on an individual. Instead of harsh judgment, the idea is to approach those who have suffered with kindness and understanding, recognizing that their challenges have shaped their existence more significantly than the mere passage of time. The suggestion to commend gently those who have endured such hardship underscores the importance of compassion. It invites readers to reflect on the shared human experience of grappling with deep-seated emotions, which can be more damaging than physical aging. This compassionate perspective fosters empathy, urging us to acknowledge the lasting effects of emotional pain and the strength required to confront it.

In Cormac McCarthy's novel "Suttree," the profound and poetic line reflects on the impact of enduring emotional turmoil over time. The phrase emphasizes the heavy toll that internal struggles, such as anger and resentment, can exact on an individual. Instead of harsh judgment, the idea is to approach those who have suffered with kindness and understanding, recognizing that their challenges have shaped their existence more significantly than the mere passage of time.

The suggestion to commend gently those who have endured such hardship underscores the importance of compassion. It invites readers to reflect on the shared human experience of grappling with deep-seated emotions, which can be more damaging than physical aging. This compassionate perspective fosters empathy, urging us to acknowledge the lasting effects of emotional pain and the strength required to confront it.