CultureAugust 15, 2026

impermanence

im-PUR-muh-nuns

Definition

The state or fact of not lasting forever; the quality of being temporary, fleeting, or subject to change.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word 'impermanens', a combination of the prefix 'in-' (not) and 'permanere' (to remain or endure). It entered English in the late 17th century to describe things that do not last.

In the news

In the article, the concept is used to describe how the characters in 'Naibed' grapple with the reality that life, relationships, and human desires are inherently unstable and transient. Recognizing this is framed as a key philosophical takeaway from the collection's Eastern perspective.

Review of Vinodbabu Rizal's Short Story Collection 'Naibed'

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