Sleep is good, death is better; but of course, the best thing would to have never been born at all

Sleep is good, death is better; but of course, the best thing would to have never been born at all

Heinrich Heine, a German poet and writer known for his wit and cynicism, is often quoted for his provocative and thought-provoking statements. One of his most famous quotes is, "Sleep is good, death is better; but of course, the best thing would to have never been born at all." This quote encapsulates Heine's dark and pessimistic view of life and the human condition.

Heine's statement reflects a deep sense of disillusionment and despair with the world. He sees sleep as a temporary escape from the harsh realities of life, death as a release from suffering, and non-existence as the ultimate freedom from pain and sorrow. This nihilistic perspective is a recurring theme in Heine's work, as he often grappled with the futility of human existence and the inevitability of suffering and death.