“People naturally pay their respects to the dead. The person had, after all, just accomplished the personal, profound feat of dying.”
Explore This Quote Further
Analysis of Quote by Haruki Murakami
In this quote by Haruki Murakami, the author brings attention to the inherent human tendency to honor and respect the deceased. The act of dying is described as a "personal, profound feat", highlighting the significance and finality of death in human experience. This observation prompts reflection on the cultural and emotional rituals surrounding death, shedding light on the universal practice of paying respects to the departed.
The Importance of Acknowledging Death
In the quote by Haruki Murakami, the idea of paying respect to the deceased is highlighted as a natural and profound act. In today's society, where death is often a taboo subject, it is important to remember the significance of acknowledging and honoring those who have passed away. By recognizing the accomplishment of someone's life and the impact they have had on others, we can find solace in the grieving process and celebrate the individual who has left a lasting impression on our lives.
Reflection on Death by Haruki Murakami
In his novel, Haruki Murakami reflects on the idea that paying respect to the deceased is a natural response to their profound accomplishment of passing away. This idea challenges conventional thoughts on death and mourning.
Reflection Questions:
Reflecting on this quote by Haruki Murakami, consider the significance of paying respects to the dead. Think about the cultural and societal beliefs around honoring those who have passed away.
- Why do you think people feel the need to pay their respects to the deceased?
- In what ways do different cultures around the world demonstrate respect for the dead?
- How does the act of honoring the deceased contribute to the grieving process for those left behind?
- Do you believe that acknowledging someone's death is a way of acknowledging their life and accomplishments?
- How can paying respects to the dead help us appreciate the value of life and the relationships we have with others?
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“I was confident that I was a special person. But time slowly chips away at life. People don't just die when their time comes. They gradually die away, from the inside. And finally the day comes when you have to settle accounts. Nobody can escape it. People have to pay the price for what they've received. I have only just learned that truth.”
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“So what can I do now?" she spoke up a minute later."Nothing," I said. "Just think about what comes before words. You owe that to the dead. As time goes on, you'll understand. What lasts, lasts; what doesn't, doesn't. Time solves most things. And what time can't solve, you have to solve yourself. Is that too much to ask?""A little," she said, trying to smile."Well, of course it is," I said, trying to smile too."I doubt that this makes sense to most people. But I think I'm right. People die all the time. Life is a lot more fragile than we think. So you should treat others in a way that leaves no regrets. Fairly, and if posible, sincerely. It's too easy not to make the effort, then weep and wring your hands after the person dies. Personally, I don't buy it."Yuki leaned against the car door. "But that's real hard, isn't it?" she said."Real hard," I said. "But it's worth trying for.”
“This person, this self, this me, finally, was made somewhere else. Everything had come from somewhere else, and it would all go somewhere else. I was nothing but a pathway for the person known as me.”