Themes of decay

Themes of decay explore how things naturally deteriorate over time, reflecting change, loss, or the passage of an era. They often symbolize the transient nature of life, beauty, or civilization, emphasizing that nothing remains static. In literature and art, these themes highlight the fragility of structures—whether physical, moral, or cultural—and provoke reflection on mortality, memory, and the inevitable decline that accompanies aging or neglect. Decay can serve as a reminder of impermanence, encouraging appreciation of the present and awareness of life's fleeting nature.