The proper function of man is to live, not to exist. I shall not waste my days in trying to prolong them. I shall use my time.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The goal of life is to actively live rather than just survive.
- In plain terms
- Live fully instead of just trying to stay alive longer.
- What can you take from it?
- Focus on quality of life, not just length.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Are you living or just existing?
- What would you do with limited time?
Another view
It ignores that survival can be a valid goal for some people.
More from Jack London
The man who dreams of artistry, and yet thinks it is necessary for someone else to lick him into shape, is a man whose art is doomed to mediocrity. If you're g…
Permalink to quote #11 You can't wait for inspiration. You have to go after it with a club.
Permalink to quote #13 I have always stood for the exalting of the life that is in me over art, or any other extraneous thing.
Permalink to quote #10
Related quotes
Here, on this side of the grave, Here, should we labor and love.
Ella Wheeler WilcoxElla Wheeler Wilcox quote #5 Thou wilt find rest from vain fancies if thou doest every act in life as though it were thy last.
AristotleAristotle quote #156 Everybody dies. What matters is what you do between now and when it happens to you. It was especially important for [him], because he was living for two
Orson Scott CardOrson Scott Card quote #916