We dress our garden, eat our dinners, discuss the household with our wives, and these things make no impression, are forgotten next week; but in the solitude to which every man is always returning, he has a sanity and revelations, which in his passage into new worlds he will carry with him. Never mind the ridicule, never mind the defeat: up again, old heart!
In our daily lives, we engage in routine activities like gardening, dining, and household discussions, which may seem mundane and are often quickly forgotten. However, it is in moments of solitude that each individual truly reflects and gains deeper insights about life. This introspection allows one to explore new perspectives and carry valuable revelations into the future.
Updike emphasizes the importance of resilience in facing life's challenges, encouraging us to rise after defeats and maintain hope. Despite external judgments or setbacks, it is crucial to keep the heart strong and seek understanding through solitude, as it lays the groundwork for personal growth and awakening.