Less base the fear of death than fear of life

Less base the fear of death than fear of life

Edward Young was an English poet and playwright who is best known for his work "Night Thoughts," a series of poems that explore themes of mortality, the afterlife, and the human experience. In this context, the quote "Less base the fear of death than fear of life" takes on a profound meaning that reflects Young's own philosophical musings on the nature of existence.

Young believed that the fear of death was not as base or ignoble as the fear of life itself. In his view, death was a natural and inevitable part of the human experience, and should not be feared or avoided. Instead, Young believed that it was the fear of life – the fear of living fully and embracing all that life has to offer – that was truly base and unworthy.

For Young, the fear of life was a fear of taking risks, of stepping outside of one's comfort zone, and of facing the unknown. It was a fear of failure, of rejection, and of disappointment. In contrast, the fear of death was simply a fear of the unknown, of what lies beyond this life. Young believed that this fear was natural and understandable, but ultimately less important than the fear of not truly living.

In "Night Thoughts," Young explores these themes in depth, using vivid imagery and powerful language to convey the beauty and fragility of life, as well as the inevitability of death. He encourages his readers to embrace life fully, to take risks, and to live with passion and purpose. Young's work is a powerful reminder that life is short and precious, and that we should not waste it living in fear.