Which line reflects a sense of futility with "What idle progeny succeed, to chase the rolling circle's speed, or urge the flying ball?"?

The line "What idle progeny succeed, to chase the rolling circle's speed, or urge the flying ball?" captures a profound sense of futility, as it questions the purpose of efforts that seem ultimately meaningless or endless. This reflection aligns closely with Thomas Gray, who explores themes of mortality, the passage of time, and the futile endeavors of life in his poetry. Gray often employed a contemplative tone, highlighting how individuals may strive toward goals—symbolized by the "rolling circle" and the "flying ball"—that ultimately lead to disillusionment or a realization of their transitory nature.

The imagery evokes a sense of relentless pursuit that culminates in an acknowledgment of life's impermanence and how such pursuits may lack true significance. Thus, the line effectively embodies Gray's thematic concerns, which delve into the inevitability of time and the existential dilemmas faced by humanity.