In the book "Centennial" by James A. Michener, the character Gray Wolf reflects on the impermanence of human life compared to the enduring presence of nature, specifically rocks. This notion underscores the idea that while human beings and their civilizations may rise and fall, the natural world often remains unchanged through time. The sentiment suggests that true permanence lies in the earth itself, which withstands the test of centuries.
Gray Wolf’s assertion serves as a poignant reminder of the cycles of existence. While empires and individuals may fade away, the landscape remains as a silent witness to the passage of time. This philosophical observation evokes themes of time, legacy, and the contrast between man’s fleeting achievements and nature’s resilience, inviting readers to reflect on their own place within the vast timeline of the world.