“The Afternoon of Life” – A Reflection
The phrase “the afternoon of life” is a poetic metaphor often used to describe midlife or the later stages of adulthood, a time when people move beyond the intense striving of youth and begin to reflect more deeply on meaning, identity, and purpose. The term was notably used by Carl Jung, the Swiss psychologist, who saw it as a critical transition period in human development.
Jung’s Perspective on the Afternoon of Life
Carl Jung wrote:
“Thoroughly unprepared, we take the step into the afternoon of life. Worse still, we take this step with the false presupposition that our truths and ideals will serve us as hitherto. But we cannot live the afternoon of life according to the program of life’s morning; for what was great in the morning will be little at evening, and what in the morning was true will at evening have become a lie.”
Jung saw the afternoon of life as a time when people must shift their focus inward. In youth (“the morning of life”), we tend to pursue achievement, ambition, and external goals—careers, relationships, status. But in midlife and beyond, those pursuits may lose their meaning or no longer satisfy. This can lead to what’s commonly called a midlife crisis, but Jung believed this crisis is actually a vital and healthy turning point.
Key Themes in the Afternoon of Life
- Reflection and Inner Work
The afternoon is a time to turn inward—to reflect on the choices one has made, to heal old wounds, and to seek self-understanding. People may ask: Who am I now? What really matters? - Letting Go of Ego
In youth, the ego drives us to prove ourselves. But in midlife, clinging to youthful ideals or ambitions can lead to frustration. The afternoon of life invites humility, acceptance, and wisdom. - Purpose and Meaning Beyond Achievement
People often begin to seek deeper meaning—through spirituality, creative pursuits, volunteering, or nurturing others (like becoming a mentor or grandparent). The focus shifts from “success” to significance. - Facing Mortality
With aging comes the growing awareness of mortality. Rather than being morbid, this awareness can lead to a renewed appreciation of life, urging us to live with greater intention. - Integration of the Self
Jung believed that the afternoon of life is when we should strive for individuation—the integration of all parts of the self (including the shadow, the unconscious, and the spiritual aspects) to become whole.
Examples in Literature and Life
- In literature, characters like King Lear, Jay Gatsby, or Clarissa Dalloway wrestle with the transitions and disillusionments of later life.
- In real life, people may begin to downsize, change careers, pursue travel, or reconnect with passions they once neglected.
Challenges of the Afternoon of Life
- Regret: Some grapple with what they didn’t achieve or missed out on.
- Loss: Aging brings the loss of loved ones, health, or social roles.
- Identity Shift: Retiring or becoming an “empty nester” can leave people asking, “Who am I without my work or my children?”
Yet these challenges, while painful, are also opportunities to evolve into a wiser, more grounded version of oneself.
Conclusion: Embracing the Afternoon
The afternoon of life is not an end, but a beginning of a different kind. It’s a time to rediscover what truly brings peace, connection, and purpose. As Jung suggested, we must not try to live the afternoon by the rules of the morning. Instead, we must adapt, grow, and allow our identity to mature. In doing so, the afternoon can become not a decline, but a flowering—rich with insight, serenity, and depth.
Would you like a poetic version of this, or for it to be adapted into a speech, essay, or classroom discussion guide?