Thousands of ordinary people were part of this metropolis, but their homes would have been perishable wattle and thatch, stuccoed with lime and mud. Every trace of their living has returned to the earth now, except for the limestone temples of art and worship. The things made of ambition, which rise higher than daily bread.
The passage reflects on the lives of countless individuals who once inhabited a bustling city, emphasizing the fragility of their homes made from simple materials like wattle, thatch, and mud. Time has erased all signs of their existence, leaving behind only the enduring limestone temples that symbolize human ambition and spirituality.
This contrast highlights the transient nature of everyday life versus the lasting impact of artistic and spiritual achievements. While the ordinary lives have vanished into the earth, the monumental structures stand as a testament to the aspirations that transcend mere survival, showcasing the pursuit of something greater than the basic necessities of life.
