Samuel Johnson: 'Prepare for death, if here at night you roam, and sign your will before you sup from home.'

Prepare for death, if here at night you roam, and sign your will before you sup from home.

In a straightforward interpretation, Samuel Johnson's quote, 'Prepare for death, if here at night you roam, and sign your will before you sup from home,' can be understood as a cautionary reminder to be always prepared for the inevitable end of life. The importance of this quote lies in the reminder that life is uncertain, and it is essential to take practical steps to ensure the smooth transition of our belongings and desires after death. However, delving deeper, this quote can also be viewed through the lens of a philosophical concept - the Stoic acceptance of mortality, which brings a unique perspective to the importance of preparing for death.At first glance, Johnson's quote urges individuals to be conscious of the dangers lurking in the world and to have their affairs in order. It serves as a pragmatic note of caution, encouraging readers to ponder their own mortality. By signing one's will before leaving the house, an individual acknowledges the possibility of danger and ensures their affairs are in order, to avoid leaving behind a chaotic aftermath.However, the quote can also be seen as an invitation to embrace a philosophical concept that might seem paradoxical - the acceptance of death as an essential part of life. Stoicism, an ancient Greek philosophy, emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and accepting the inevitability of death, not as something to be feared but as a natural and necessary part of existence. By preparing for death and signing one's will, an individual practices the Stoic virtue of facing reality head-on and accepting the transience of life.By bringing this unexpected philosophical concept into the discussion, we can explore the contrasting approaches to the importance of preparing for death. On one hand, the practical approach aligns with societal norms and expectations, recognizing the need for responsibility and preparation. On the other hand, the Stoic perspective offers a more profound understanding, suggesting that preparing for death is not solely about practical arrangements, but also about exploring our own beliefs, fears, and desires surrounding mortality.While preparing for death practically may provide a sense of security and ensure a smooth transition for loved ones left behind, embracing the Stoic acceptance of death offers individuals an opportunity for personal growth and introspection. It encourages individuals to confront their own mortality, reflect on the nature of their lives, and seek meaning in the midst of impermanence.In conclusion, Samuel Johnson's quote 'Prepare for death, if here at night you roam, and sign your will before you sup from home' carries both a practical and philosophical significance. On a practical level, it encourages individuals to be responsible for their affairs, ensuring a smooth transition after death. However, if we delve deeper and adopt a Stoic perspective, the quote takes on a more profound meaning. It reminds individuals to embrace the acceptance of mortality, not as something to be feared, but as an inherent part of life. By preparing for death, we not only fulfill our social obligations, but we also embark on a journey of self-discovery, contemplation, and personal growth. So, whether we choose to prepare practically or philosophically, the message remains clear - to confront and prepare for death is to embrace the fullness of life.