Ancestor Quote by George Leonard
“Running, close companion to death, summons us to the most vivid acts of life. Our ancestors (we have forgotten) ran for food and for love, love and lust. For us, a prime symbol of sexuality is the automobile. For the ancients it was the chase, the foot race. Satyr and nymph, maiden and god, hot pursuit. The mythic hunters, Diana and Atalanta, available only to the males, men or gods, who could outrun them; death to all others.”
About This Quote
Source Book: "The Art of Running", 1990s
Running mirrors death, prompting vivid living; ancient pursuits of love and chase shape modern sexuality.
In simple terms: Running reflects death, urging vivid life and ancient chase symbolism.
Key Takeaway
Embrace life's urgency through active pursuit.
Themes
mortality
vividness
sexuality
history
symbolism
Mood
reflective
poetic
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- marathon training
- adventure travel
- creative projects
Key Concepts
anthropology
psychology
movement
mythology
Questions to Reflect On
- How does physical activity sharpen your life?
- What ancient drives influence you today?
A Different Perspective
Modern symbols may dilute ancient meanings.
![“Now they [the Powers] have started the aggression, and the extinction of our nation is imminent. If we just fold our arms and yield to them, I would have no face to see our ancestors after death. If we must perish, why not fight to the death?” quote by Empress Dowager Cixi](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/947/empress-dowager-cixi-68177_after-death_now-they-the-powers-have-started-the-agg_53275.jpg)
