* "Beauty will fade": This refers to physical beauty, such as a youthful appearance, perfect features, or physical attractiveness. It acknowledges that these qualities are temporary and subject to the effects of time, age, and circumstance. Physical beauty is often fleeting and external.
* "Goodness will not": This refers to moral character, kindness, compassion, integrity, and ethical behavior. It emphasizes that these qualities are enduring and not diminished by time or age. Goodness is internal and has a lasting impact.
In essence, the proverb means that:
While physical attractiveness is temporary and will eventually diminish, inner goodness, moral character, and ethical behavior are lasting qualities that are not subject to the same fading process. Goodness is seen as more valuable and enduring than physical beauty.
The proverb often implies:
* A warning against prioritizing physical beauty over moral character.
* An encouragement to cultivate inner goodness and virtues.
* A recognition that true and lasting value lies in a person's character rather than their appearance.
The proverb is a reminder to value and develop traits that are independent of physical appearance and have a lasting positive impact on oneself and others.