Skip to content
quotesby

About this quote

What does it mean?
Kenko writes that death is constant and often unexpected, comparing it to a tide that floods the beach without warning.
In plain terms
Death waits for everyone and can come suddenly when you do not expect it.
What can you take from it?
Be mindful that death can arrive unexpectedly.

Where it applies

  • reflection
  • memento mori

Putting it to work

  • contemplate mortality
  • live mindfully

Questions to consider

  • How does knowing about death change life?
  • Are we prepared for the end?

Another view

This view emphasizes suddenness which may not fit all deaths.

More from Yoshida Kenko

  1. A man who would be a success the world must first of all be a judge of moods, for untimely speeches will offend the ears and hurt the feelings of others, and s…

    Permalink to quote #8
  2. Ambition never comes to an end.

    Permalink to quote #7
  3. The truth is at the beginning of anything and its end are alike touching.

    Permalink to quote #6

Related quotes

  1. Time wounds all heels.

    Jane AceJane Ace quote #1
  2. O time, arrest your flight! and you, propitious hours, arrest your course! Let us savor the fleeting delights of our most beautiful days!

    Alphonse de LamartineAlphonse de Lamartine quote #1
  3. Estas que fueron pompa y alegria despertando al albor de la manana, a la tarde seran lastima vana durmiendo en brazos de la noche fria.

    Pedro Calderon de la BarcaPedro Calderon de la Barca quote #1