D. H. Lawrence: 'Be a good animal, true to your animal instincts.'

Be a good animal, true to your animal instincts.

In his timeless words, D.H. Lawrence implores us to embrace our animal instincts and be true to ourselves. This quote speaks to the idea of harnessing our innate nature and living authentically. It encourages us to shed the constraints of societal expectations and listen to the voice deep within us, echoing the primal instincts that have been ingrained in us since the dawn of time. By doing so, we can rediscover our true essence and find fulfillment in our lives.At first glance, Lawrence's quote may seem straightforward, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting with our animal nature. It suggests that being a "good animal" involves tapping into our instincts, trusting our gut feelings, and embracing our primal desires. It urges us to question the barriers we have erected due to societal norms and expectations, challenging us to break free from the shackles that confine us.However, philosophy introduces an interesting and contrasting concept to this notion of being a "good animal." The philosophy of existentialism posits that humans are distinct from animals precisely because we possess the ability to rise above our primal instincts and exercise conscious choice. Jean-Paul Sartre, a notable existentialist philosopher, argued that humans are not bound by their instincts; rather, they have the freedom to forge their own paths and create their own meaning in life.While on the surface this may contradict Lawrence's quote, a deeper exploration reveals a fascinating and complementary relationship between the two perspectives. Existentialism focuses on the importance of individual agency, emphasizing personal responsibility and the creation of meaning in our lives. In this sense, being a "good animal" can be seen as an invitation to honor our animal instincts while still maintaining our ability to think critically and make conscious choices.By embracing our animal instincts, we tap into a wellspring of primal energy that can invigorate and enrich our existence. Our instincts often guide us towards what is essential for our survival and well-being, helping us navigate through life's challenges with an uncanny intuition. They remind us of our connectedness to the natural world and bring us closer to our true selves, beyond the artificial constructs of society.Yet, the philosophical dimension serves as a grounding force, reminding us that we are not bound solely by these instincts. It encourages us to reflect on our actions and decisions, ensuring that they align with our values and contribute to our personal growth. Being a "good animal" does not mean forsaking reason or abandoning our capacity for choice; rather, it entails integrating our primal nature with our conscious awareness to navigate the complexities of human existence.In embracing both perspectives, we can strike a harmonious balance between our animal instincts and our uniquely human capabilities. It is through this delicate equilibrium that we can unleash the full potential of our existence. We become attuned to the wisdom of our instincts, while simultaneously cultivating a conscious understanding of our actions and their consequences.In conclusion, D.H. Lawrence's quote invites us to delve deep into our animal instincts and embrace them as an integral part of our being. It urges us to shed the societal norms that restrict our true nature and encourages us to rediscover our authenticity. Although existentialism presents a contrasting view, emphasizing our ability to rise above our instincts, it ultimately complements Lawrence's quote by highlighting the importance of conscious choice and personal responsibility. By incorporating both perspectives, we can navigate the complexities of life with a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us, ultimately creating a more profound and fulfilling existence.