Ours is essentially a tragic age, so we refuse to take it tragically

Ours is essentially a tragic age, so we refuse to take it tragically

David Herbert Lawrence, a renowned English writer, poet, and literary critic, is often associated with the quote, "Ours is essentially a tragic age, so we refuse to take it tragically." This statement encapsulates Lawrence's perspective on the modern world and the challenges that individuals face in navigating the complexities of contemporary society.

Lawrence's works often explore themes of alienation, disillusionment, and the struggle for authenticity in a world that he viewed as increasingly materialistic and disconnected from nature. In his novels such as "Sons and Lovers" and "Women in Love," Lawrence delves into the inner lives of his characters, revealing their inner turmoil and existential angst in the face of societal expectations and constraints.

The quote, "Ours is essentially a tragic age, so we refuse to take it tragically," reflects Lawrence's belief that while the modern world may be filled with suffering and despair, individuals have the power to transcend these challenges through a refusal to succumb to pessimism and defeatism. Instead of resigning themselves to a tragic fate, Lawrence suggests that people can find meaning and purpose in their lives by embracing their own agency and striving for personal growth and self-realization.

Lawrence's emphasis on the refusal to take the tragic nature of the age too seriously can be seen as a call to action for individuals to resist the forces of conformity and mediocrity that threaten to stifle their creativity and vitality. By rejecting the prevailing norms and values of society, Lawrence encourages his readers to forge their own path and to cultivate a sense of authenticity and integrity in their lives.