I like your interpretation and the overall twist of the subject because of it. I saw this old man through the lens of our societal culture in a post communism era in an Eastern European country where unfortunately this is what happens with the majority of the elderly.

Your response is not only different mentally but also culturally which makes it even more interesting to ponder about.

It is a challenge to see a frail creature and to think that it can still withhold some form of power, isn't it? Now I think of all the examples that you have given and they all have a common theme: inner strenght. As in following a passion out of pure joy without needing it to produce something of palpable value in the world.

When you see an elderly person walking slowly in your country, what is your first thought?