The Proper Function of Man

I’d rather be ashes than dust! I’d rather that my spark should burn out in a brilliant blaze than it should be stifled by dry rot. I’d rather be a superb meteor, every atom of me in magnificent glow, than a sleepy and permanent planet. The proper function of man is to live, not to exist. I won’t waste my days in trying to prolong them. I’ll use my time.

-Jack London