Atheism Quote by William Alexander, 1st Earl of Stirling
“How some dare scorn (as if a fabulous lie) that they should rise whom death to dust doth bind -- and like to beasts, a beastly life they lead, who naught attend save death when they are dead.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: Unknown, early 17th century
The quote condemns those who deny mortality, living brutishly and ignoring death’s inevitability.
In simple terms: People who ignore death live like beasts.
Key Takeaway
Recognize mortality to live meaningfully.
Themes
mortality
humility
human nature
Mood
somber
reflective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- ethical decision making
- literary analysis
Key Concepts
existentialism
philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How does acknowledging death change daily choices?
- What does “beastly life” mean to you?
A Different Perspective
It may romanticize death without offering practical guidance.
![“You bitches, sows, screech-owls, night owls, she-wolves, blood suckers, [who] cry “Give, give! without ceasing” (Prov. 30:15–16). Come now, hear me, harlots, prostitutes, with your lascivious kisses, you wallowing places for fat pigs, couches for unclean spirits, demi-goddesses, sirens, witches…” quote by Stephen Greenblatt](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/3fa/stephen-greenblatt-10786_quote_you-bitches-sows-screech-owls-night-owls_831121.jpg)
