"People do not retire. They are retired by others"

This quote by Duke Ellington talks to the concept that retirement is not something that people pick for themselves, however rather something that is selected for them by others. This could be translated in a few different ways. To start with, it might be viewed as a commentary on the power characteristics of the office, where employers have the power to decide when a staff member is no longer required and can be retired. It might also be viewed as a reminder that retirement is not something that people should take for approved, as it is not always an option that remains in their control. Lastly, it could be viewed as a reminder that retirement is not completion of an individual's life, however rather a new beginning. Retirement can be a time for individuals to explore new interests, spend time with household, and enjoy life in a different way.