The quote reflects a significant shift in the speaker's life perspective after reaching the age of sixty. It suggests a sense of exhaustion with verbal communication and a decision to forgo the exchanges that once defined their life. The speaker implies that they have reached a stage where they no longer find value in discussions, signaling a deep personal insight that comes with aging.
This change can be interpreted as a quest for tranquility or perhaps a rejection of superficial interactions. The character seems to seek solitude and introspection over the noise of external opinions and conversations. This stance could indicate a broader theme in the book about the complexities of human connection and the evolution of one's thoughts over time.