In John Updike's "The Poorhouse Fair," the author reflects on the inevitability of aging and the tendency of older generations to cling to traditional views, despite having embraced modernity in their youth. This suggests that as individuals grow older, they often revert to the beliefs and values of their forebears, indicating a cyclical nature of thought across generations.

This quote highlights a universal experience where aging brings a shift in perspective, leading individuals to adopt the philosophies of their parents and grandparents. It reinforces the idea that our views can be shaped not only by our own experiences but also by the values we inherit from those who came before us.