In John Updike's novel "The Centaur," the protagonist reflects on the complexities of aging and the delayed wisdom that often accompanies it. The quote, "One gets old early, but his mind comes to him late," encapsulates the notion that physical decline can precede mental maturity. This idea suggests that while the body may betray us with age, the understanding and insights gained through life experiences often take time to develop.

This statement sheds light on the paradox of growing older; while we accumulate knowledge and understanding, our bodies may not function as they did in youth. Updike captures the essence of this human experience, illustrating that the journey of life is marked by a disconnect between physical deterioration and the eventual clarity of thought that maturity can bring. Such reflections resonate with readers and invite deeper contemplation about the nature of aging and wisdom.