The quote from "Don Quixote" by Miguel de Cervantes reflects on a bygone era, referred to as the golden age by the ancients. This period is celebrated not for the abundance of gold or riches that came effortlessly, but for the profound understanding of community and shared resources among its people. In this age, individuals lived without the concepts of possession and greed, which deeply influenced their interactions and societal values.

By contrasting this idealized past with the current "iron" age, the author critiques contemporary society's obsession with material wealth and ownership. He implies that true happiness stems from unity and the absence of selfish desires. The emphasis on communal living and the rejection of possessiveness highlight a longing for a simpler, more fulfilling way of life that fosters cooperation and connection among individuals.