I don't want to own anything that won't fit into my coffin

I don't want to own anything that won't fit into my coffin

Fred Allen was a legendary American comedian known for his quick wit and sharp humor. He was a master of satire and social commentary, often poking fun at the absurdities of everyday life. One of his most famous quotes is, “I don't want to own anything that won't fit into my coffin.”

This quote speaks to Allen's philosophy of life and his disdain for materialism. Allen believed that possessions and wealth were ultimately meaningless in the grand scheme of things. He saw the pursuit of material goods as a futile endeavor, as they would ultimately be left behind when we pass away.

For Allen, the true measure of a person's worth was not in the things they owned, but in the impact they had on the world and the relationships they formed with others. He valued experiences and memories over material possessions, believing that these were the things that truly mattered in life.

In a world that often places a high value on wealth and possessions, Allen's words serve as a reminder to focus on what is truly important. He encourages us to live a life of purpose and meaning, rather than getting caught up in the pursuit of material goods.

Allen's quote also speaks to the idea of impermanence and the fleeting nature of life. We cannot take our possessions with us when we die, so why place so much importance on them in the first place? Allen's words remind us to focus on the things that truly matter, such as love, friendship, and personal growth.