Saturn, the Bringer of Old Age

      Hello! This is my first post after the mid-term exams, “Saturn, the Bringer of Old Age.” According to the composer, Gustav Holst, the title “old age” is not limited to the physical decay. That is, this movement also describes the decay of one’s mind. And, it perfectly meets my sorrow after seeing my calculus grade.

      Although representing aging in this movement, Saturn is regarded as the god of harvest in Greek/Roman myth. With its shining and majestic ring, Saturn is the most eye-catching planet in our solar system as well. You can learn more about it from “Space School” below!

      So, how does this movement describe “aging”? It stares from a slow melody, which depicts the stream of time and the staggering footsteps of the elderly. And then, it gradually unfolds to powerful theme. Maybe it represents the old men’s ambition and unwilling to wither. (烈士暮年，壯心不已) The ringing bells around 5:30 is our fear of facing death. After the terrifying bells, the emotions shift dramatically. It becomes so peace and sublime.

      And that brings out a big question to me. As a living girl, it’s hard to accept death calmly. But being truly touched by it, maybe I can understand and embrace getting old as well as death some day.

      By the way, hope you all get good grade in mid-term exams! If you didn’t, you could turn to music for consolation like me.XD