In Joseph Conrad's "The Shadow-Line," the author reflects on the nature of youth and its perception of time. He suggests that young people experience life without the interruptions or contemplations often associated with adulthood. Their existence is characterized by a seamless flow of hope and anticipation, allowing them to move forward without the burdens of reflection.

This viewpoint emphasizes how early youth is marked by an innocent, unbreakable optimism. In this state, individuals are free from the worries and doubts that come with age, allowing them to embrace each moment fully, unencumbered by the weight of future uncertainties.