Will it last?

How do you know if a thing will last? Stand the test of time?

If novelty or innovation is not the prime criterion - that is, if you're trying to build or improve on something that is established or at least has been done before - the easiest way to find out is to study the old things.

In architecture, the best-built buildings are the ones that are still standing.

In woodworking, the best-built cabinets are the ones that are still around.

In writing, myths, tales, lessons, the ones that are ancient carry truth - they have proven durable over millenia.

So, look for the old things - not to copy, but to learn.