Charles Morgan: 'All enchantments die; only cowards die with them.'

All enchantments die; only cowards die with them.

The quote by Charles Morgan, 'All enchantments die; only cowards die with them,' possesses a profound meaning that urges individuals to confront the impermanence of enchanting moments and constantly evolve, rather than clinging onto them in fear. At first glance, the quote seems to encourage adventure, resilience, and a willingness to embrace change. It reminds us that enchanting moments, be it a memorable experience, a budding relationship, or a captivating stage in life, will eventually come to an end. However, it is important to understand that the core message of the quote extends beyond its surface meaning. By delving deeper into the concept of enchantment and cowardice, we can explore a philosophical concept known as existentialism.Existentialism, a philosophical perspective developed by renowned thinkers such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus, delves into the significance of individual existence and the power of choice. According to existentialism, humans are responsible for giving meaning to their own lives, even in the face of the inherent meaninglessness of the universe. It highlights the importance of personal agency and the courage to face life's challenges head-on, rather than passively conforming to societal expectations or seeking refuge in fleeting enchantments.When we compare the quote by Charles Morgan with existentialism, we uncover an interesting parallel. Both emphasize the idea that clinging onto enchantments or hiding from the uncertainties of life is a form of cowardice. In this context, a coward is not merely someone who succumbs to fear, but also an individual who refuses to acknowledge their responsibility in shaping their own life's meaning. They become trapped in a cycle of seeking momentary enchantment to fill the void left by the passing of previous enchantments, rather than actively confronting the existential challenges of existence.To illustrate this further, let's imagine a person who constantly seeks the thrill of new romantic relationships. They fear the end of enchanting moments and avoid committing for fear of eventual disappointment. By doing so, they remain caught in a perpetual cycle of shallow connections, never fully experiencing the depth and growth that arises from confronting the challenges inherent in long-term relationships. In this scenario, their avoidance becomes a reflection of cowardice, as they are avoiding the necessary vulnerability and growth that comes from investing in meaningful connections.On the other hand, individuals who embrace the impermanence of enchantments and the uncertainties of life display courage in the face of adversity. Recognizing that all things eventually come to an end, they approach each moment with an open heart, fully immersing themselves in the experience while knowing that it will ultimately fade away. They understand that the richness of life lies in its ephemerality and fully embrace the vulnerability that comes with it. By doing so, they cultivate resilience, wisdom, and a deeper appreciation for the beauty inherent in transience.In conclusion, Charles Morgan's quote, 'All enchantments die; only cowards die with them,' encapsulates a profound truth about the impermanence of enchanting moments and the importance of courageously confronting this reality. When viewed through the lens of existentialism, it serves as a poignant reminder of the need to actively shape our lives' meaning, rather than passively clinging onto fleeting enchantments. By embracing life's uncertainties and allowing ourselves to fully experience each moment, we can grow beyond the limitations of cowardice and step into a realm of enriched existence.