"I heard the old, old, men say 'all that's beautiful drifts away, like the waters.'"

This quote by William Butler Yeats speaks to the idea of impermanence. It recommends that all things that are stunning, such as the waters, will eventually wander away. This might be analyzed as a metaphor for the fleeting nature of life, and how all things eventually concern an end. It might likewise be translated as a warning to appreciate the appeal of life while it is still here, as it will eventually wander away. Using the phrase "old, old men" could be interpreted as a referral to the knowledge of the seniors, and how they understand the importance of valuing the appeal of life while it is still here. This quote is a pointer to appreciate the beauty of life, as it will ultimately wander away.