In "Lonesome Dove" by Larry McMurtry, the author reflects on the innocence and naivety of youth, highlighting how this can elicit compassion from those who observe them. Young individuals often lack an understanding of the fleeting nature of life, believing that time stretches indefinitely before them. This ignorance can be both charming and heartbreaking, as it shields them from the harsh realities of adulthood.

The passage suggests that while youth is filled with hope and passion, it is also transient. Relationships may blossom, but they can also fade over time, bringing a bittersweet quality to youthful experiences. McMurtry captures this duality, emphasizing how the passage of time alters perspectives on love and life, reminding readers that nothing is permanent.