Afraid Quote by W. Somerset Maugham
““I’m not afraid of my fear. It’s folly, the Christian argument that you should live always in view of your death. The only way to live is to forget that you’re going to die. Death is unimportant. The fear of it should never influence a single action of the wise man. I know that I shall die struggling for breath, and I know that I shall be horribly afraid. I know that I shall not be able to keep myself from regretting bitterly the life that has brought me to such a pass; but I disown that regret. I now, weak, old, diseased, poor, dying, hold still my soul in my hands, and I regret nothing.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Of Human Bondage, 1915
The speaker rejects fear of death, urging living fully without death’s influence, accepting regret but refusing to be ruled by it.
In simple terms: Live without fearing death.
Key Takeaway
Live boldly, ignore death’s fear.
Themes
mortality
fear
acceptance
Mood
thoughtful
resolute
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- end‑of‑life reflections
- ethical decision‑making
- personal resilience
Key Concepts
Existentialism
Stoicism
Questions to Reflect On
- How does acknowledging death shape your choices?
- What regrets can you release?
A Different Perspective
Denial of death may ignore its practical guidance.
