When Shakespeare asserts in The Tempest , “What’s past is prologue,” it prompts contemporary readers to exercise contemplation on how far this conceit is correct, as individuals’ perceptions of the past vary significantly. For some, the past evokes nostalgia for a bygone era characterized by glory and growth, serving as a foundation for present endeavours. However, for others, the past represents a continuum of upheaval and uncertainty that incessantly poses challenges to the establishment of present identities. One must wonder: is change really objective?

Change is an undeniable force that shapes the world around us. From the shifting seasons to the evolution of technology, change is omnipresent, touching every aspect of our lives. However, amidst its constant presence, it’s essential to recognize that change is not an absolute concept; rather, it is relative, varying in its impact and significance depending on individual perspectives and circumstances.

In the realm of nature, change manifests itself in myriad forms. The transition from day to night, the cycle of the seasons, and the growth of living organisms all exemplify the dynamic nature of our world. Similarly, in the realm of human experience, change takes on a multitude of forms. It can be as subtle as tweaking the canvas by subtracting a small accent colour or as monumental as the Russian Revolution of 1917.

What makes change truly relative is its subjective nature. For some, change represents an opportunity for growth and renewal, a chance to embrace new experiences and perspectives. For others, it may evoke feelings of nervousness and apprehension, disrupting familiar routines and challenging current norms. For instance, a spike in indoor thermal environment isn’t a concern, yet it is well established by The Paris Agreement (2015) that a limit to global warming must be below 2 degrees Celsius, due to its more serious ramifications.

Moreover, the significance of change often depends on one’s vantage point in time. What may seem revolutionary in the present moment may be seen as commonplace or even obsolete in the future. Consider the evolution of Judeophobia — the anti-Semitic labelling of Jews as Untermensch (subhuman), Ratte (rat) and Volksschädlinge (racial pests) in the 1940s seems absolutely appalling and orthodox in contemporary settings.

Embracing the relativity of change requires a willingness to adapt and evolve in response to shifting circumstances. It entails acknowledging that while change may be disruptive and uncomfortable at times, it also presents opportunities for growth and innovation. By fostering a mindset of flexibility, we can improve situations for communities such as queer people, immigrants, and women. Additionally, we can achieve expedited progress in fields like Generative AI, quantum computing, and biotechnology. Apart from this, by viewing change as an opportunity to grow, we can cultivate enhanced resilience to adversity.


In conclusion, change is not a fixed phenomenon but rather a dynamic and relative aspect of life. By recognizing its fluidity and embracing its transformative potential, we can navigate the complexities of our world with courage, curiosity, and compassion. In doing so, we affirm our capacity to adapt, grow, and thrive amidst the ever-changing landscape of existence. Our past may be our prologue, but then again, this statement is only so anchored and objective.

– Yatharth Rajput (XB)