On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous: Last line encapsulates impermanence, vulnerability and fleeting nature of beauty and love

The last line of “On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous” by Ocean Vuong explores the fear of things lasting longer than one’s capacity to love or appreciate them. This line connects with the book’s themes of impermanence, fear, and vulnerability. The protagonist, Little Dog, grapples with the fleeting nature of existence and the complexities of his relationships. The line also reflects the intimate and reflective narrative structure of the book, which is written as a letter from Little Dog to his mother. Overall, the line highlights the struggle to fully embrace and cherish beauty and love in life.