Oh life, you should never had begun, but since you did, you should never end

Oh life, you should never had begun, but since you did, you should never end

Baltasar Gracian, a Spanish Jesuit and baroque prose writer, was known for his philosophical reflections on life, human nature, and the complexities of the world. In his works, he often delved into the dualities and contradictions that exist within the human experience, and his words often carried a sense of profound wisdom and insight.

The quote, “Oh life, you should never had begun, but since you did, you should never end,” encapsulates Gracian’s nuanced understanding of the human condition. On the surface, the statement may seem paradoxical – why would someone wish for life to never have begun, yet also wish for it to never end? However, when viewed through the lens of Gracian’s philosophy, the quote takes on a deeper meaning.

Gracian believed that life was a complex and often painful journey, filled with challenges, disappointments, and uncertainties. He recognized the inherent struggles and suffering that come with existence, and perhaps wished that life had never begun in order to spare humanity from these hardships. Yet, at the same time, he understood the beauty and potential for growth and self-discovery that life offers. Despite its difficulties, life also presents opportunities for joy, love, and personal fulfillment.