The aim of life is to live, and to live means to be aware, joyously, drunkenly, serenely, divinely aware

The aim of life is to live, and to live means to be aware, joyously, drunkenly, serenely, divinely aware

Henry Miller, the renowned American writer and painter, is often associated with a bohemian lifestyle and a philosophy of living life to the fullest. His quote, “The aim of life is to live, and to live means to be aware, joyously, drunkenly, serenely, divinely aware,” encapsulates his belief in the importance of embracing every moment with a sense of awareness and joy.

For Miller, life was not meant to be lived passively or in a state of numbness. Instead, he believed that true living required a deep sense of awareness – an openness to experience the world fully and engage with it in a meaningful way. This awareness, according to Miller, should be approached with a sense of joy and celebration, as if each moment were a gift to be cherished.

The idea of living “drunkenly” and “serenely” speaks to Miller’s belief in finding a balance between indulgence and tranquility. He saw value in embracing life’s pleasures and allowing oneself to be carried away by the intoxicating experiences it has to offer. At the same time, he recognized the importance of finding moments of peace and stillness, where one could reflect and find clarity amidst the chaos of life.

To live “divinely aware” was perhaps the most profound aspect of Miller’s philosophy. He believed in the power of transcending the mundane and connecting with something greater than oneself – whether that be through art, nature, or spirituality. By approaching life with a sense of divinity, Miller believed that one could find a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment.