That's the duty of the old, said the Librarian, to be anxious on behalf of the young. And the duty of the young is to scorn the anxiety of the old. They sat for a while longer, and then parted, for it was late, and they were old and anxious.
The Librarian expresses the contrasting roles of different generations, highlighting that older people feel a responsibility to worry about the younger ones, reflecting their experiences and concerns. This anxiety arises from a desire to protect and guide the youth, stemming from a belief that the future may be perilous or challenging.
On the other hand, the young are portrayed as scornful of this anxiety, suggesting a natural inclination towards independence and a desire to forge their own paths. This dynamic creates a poignant tension between the generations, emphasizing the need for balance between care and freedom as they navigate their respective roles in the world.
