Lastingness, The Art of Old Age

This ARC of the book Lastingness - to be published this month in fact - proved to be a new challenge for me. I will admit that reading "Whatever hill we try to climb, we are over by fifty and if that hill involves entertainment or athletics, we are finished long before" was again a reminder that nothing lasts.
I have thought for a long time now that once you reach fifty, your warranty is over and then everything falls apart! Or does it?

Yes, I am over the hill and I confess this is the first book I read on the subject. Anyone who is retired will agree this kind of subject comes as a mixed blessing!

Nicholas Delbanco's uplifting look at old age however involves an amazing amount of detail and thought.
In this, his latest book Lastingness, he clearly shows that Creativity and Genius is not limited to the younger generation. In fact he gives wonderful examples of those who continue to perform interesting and productive lifestyle in their 90's and beyond!

It is enlightening to know that whilst some people see their skills and knowledge decline in their latter years, many - like a good wine - will improve and still contribute to our World even as their body slows down.
Growing old is indeed an art! And you just might discover something about yourself still!

Nicholas Delbanco describes his father in law as being "Only ninety four". From someone who was raised by her Grand Mother I can attest that even as a nonagenarian you can live a full life! Her motto was "Live, Don't just exist!" and she left an everlasting impression on anyone who met her!

Carpe Diem (Seize the day!) as Horace would say!

Not all of us will be remembered as an Artist or a Genius of course but we still have a few things to do and to try! Never say Never!

This book is a great read for anyone in the Golden Age or merely approaching it, especially those of us whose plans calls for just sitting in our favourite rocking chair on the porch watching the world go by! Carpe Diem!

This is 4 star material and I recommend you find a spot on your library shelves for this book!
Consider this a much enjoyed book!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this ARC book free from Hachette Book Group as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."