Death Quote by Samuel Butler
“To himself everyone is immortal; he may know that he is going to die, but he can never know that he is dead.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Erewhon by Samuel Butler, 1872
We cannot truly know death, only our own mortality, while we assume others live forever.
In simple terms: We know we will die, but not that we are dead.
Key Takeaway
Accept uncertainty about others' fate.
Themes
mortality
knowledge
existence
Mood
contemplative
philosophical
Type
reflective
thought‑provoking
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- philosophical debate
- life counseling
Key Concepts
epistemology
death
self-awareness
Questions to Reflect On
- How does uncertainty about others' death affect how you treat them?
- Do you assume others are immortal?
A Different Perspective
Assuming immortality may lead to neglecting present relationships.
