Man has but three events in his life: to be born, to live, and to die. He is not conscious of his birth, he suffers at his death and he forgets to live.

Meaning

At its core, the quote expresses a belief about life. It implies that life rarely follows a perfect plan, and invites reflection on we focus on the present moment.

Theme

Across cultures, life remains a recurring subject. Many reflect on it since people seek purpose and clarity. This quote fits that tradition, highlighting that every stage of life offers lessons.

About the Author

A number of familiar sayings are associated with Jean de la Bruyere. This one stands out due to its focus on life.

Style and Structure

The phrasing is minimalistic, using contrast to focus attention on the core idea.

FAQ

What does this quote mean?
life rarely follows a perfect plan.

Why is it popular?
It speaks clearly about life, making it widely relatable.

How can it be applied?
It encourages us to we focus on the present moment.