Coco Chanel: 'I am not young but I feel young. The day I feel old, I will go to bed and stay there. J'aime la vie! I feel that to live is a wonderful thing.'

I am not young but I feel young. The day I feel old, I will go to bed and stay there. J'aime la vie! I feel that to live is a wonderful thing.

In the world of fashion, there are few names as iconic as Coco Chanel. Known for her timeless designs and groundbreaking approach to style, Chanel continues to inspire and influence even to this day. One of her most captivating quotes, "I am not young but I feel young. The day I feel old, I will go to bed and stay there. J'aime la vie! I feel that to live is a wonderful thing," encapsulates her spirit and attitude towards life.At a glance, this quote can be summarized as Chanel's refusal to let age limit her sense of vitality and love for life. She acknowledges that she may not be young in years, but she refuses to let age define her. For her, feeling young is not merely a matter of physical appearance or energy levels. It is a state of mind, an inner attitude that embraces the joys and wonders of life, regardless of age. By asserting her belief in the beauty of living, she exemplifies an unwavering zest for life that resonates with people from all walks of life.However, to delve deeper into the meaning and importance of this quote, let's introduce an unexpected and thought-provoking philosophical concept: existentialism. Existentialism, a school of thought that emerged in the 20th century, focuses on individual existence, freedom, responsibility, and the search for meaning in life.In many ways, Chanel's words align with existentialist principles. She rejects the idea that age should define her perspective on life, highlighting the individual's freedom to craft their own interpretation of the world. Just as existentialists challenge societal norms and dogmas, Chanel challenges the notion that one must conform to a certain behavior or perception as they grow older.Existentialism also emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and choice in shaping our lives. Chanel's statement implies that she actively chooses to feel young, refusing to succumb to societal expectations or perceived limitations that come with age. It is a powerful reminder that we hold agency in how we experience the world and that our mindset can significantly impact our overall well-being.Furthermore, Chanel's assertion that "to live is a wonderful thing" echoes existentialism's pursuit of finding meaning and purpose in one's existence. In a philosophy often associated with angst and uncertainty, her words inject a sense of optimism and appreciation for the simple joys of being alive. It serves as a reminder that life is a precious gift meant to be cherished and enjoyed to the fullest.Now, let's contrast the existentialist perspective with another philosophical concept: stoicism. Stoicism, an ancient philosophy originating in Greece, advocates for finding tranquility through practicing self-control, remaining indifferent to external events, and accepting the inevitable hardships of life.At first glance, Chanel's quote may seem to clash with stoic principles. While stoics would argue that it is essential to accept the natural process of aging and embrace the realities of getting older, Chanel's refusal to feel old and her active pursuit of a youthful mindset may be interpreted as a rejection of stoic values.However, upon deeper reflection, one can find a harmonious balance between Chanel's approach to life and stoic philosophy. Stoicism does not imply that one should resign themselves to a stagnant and joyless existence. Rather, it encourages individuals to focus on what is within their control and cultivate a positive mental state. In this context, Chanel's refusal to let age discourage her embodies the stoic idea of taking charge of one's inner thoughts and attitudes.Furthermore, stoicism teaches us to cherish the present moment and acknowledge the beauty of the fleeting nature of life. Chanel's declaration of the wonderfulness of life resonates with the stoic appreciation for the present moment, emphasizing the significance of finding contentment and joy in the here and now.In summary, Coco Chanel's quote, "I am not young but I feel young. The day I feel old, I will go to bed and stay there. J'aime la vie! I feel that to live is a wonderful thing," captures her vibrant spirit, refusal to let age define her, and unwavering love for life. By introducing unexpected philosophical concepts such as existentialism and stoicism, we gain a more profound understanding of the quote's significance. Chanel's words remind us of the importance of embracing our freedom, choosing our mindset, and finding meaning and joy in the ever-changing journey of life.