Euthanasia

Name: Euthanasia
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge

The work presents a reflective monologue of a dying individual grappling with the nature of life, memory, and the inevitability of death. The speaker experiences a resurgence of memories from youth, which evoke feelings of nostalgia and longing for lost vitality and hope. These memories are described as tangible, almost sensory experiences that contrast sharply with the present state of decline. The speaker contemplates the essence of reality, suggesting that it exists on a spectrum, from grand narratives like epic poetry to fleeting dreams. This exploration leads to a philosophical inquiry about existence and the divine, emphasizing a desire to contribute positively to humanity and glorify a higher power. The speaker expresses regret over unfinished intellectual pursuits, particularly a philosophical work intended to uplift and enlighten others. As the narrative unfolds, there is a poignant acknowledgment of the speaker's mortality and the acceptance of divine will, indicating a resignation to fate. The tone oscillates between melancholy and a profound sense of purpose, reflecting on the interplay between personal aspirations and the broader human experience. The work ultimately serves as a meditation on life’s transience, the search for meaning, and the acceptance of one's limitations in the face of death.

By Samuel Taylor Coleridge · First published 1830 · Genre: Philosophical, Autobiographical, Poetic · 287 words

First lines

I am, dying, but without expectation of a speedy release. Is it not strange that very recently by-gone images, and scenes of early life, have stolen into my mind, like breezes blown from the spice-islands of Youth and Hope -- those twin realities of this phantom world! I do not add Love, -- for what is Love but Youth and Hope embracing, and so seen as _one? _ I say _realities_; for reality is a thing of degrees, from the Iliad to a dream; [Greek: *ai g_or t onar e Di s esti]. Yet, in a strict sense, reality is not predicable at all of aught below Heaven. "Es enim _in coelis_, Pater noster, qui tu vere _es! _" Hooker wished to live to finish his Ecclesiastical Polity; -- so I own I wish life and strength had been spared to me to complete my Philosophy. For, as God hears me, the originating, continuing, and sustaining wish and design in my heart were to exalt the glory of his name; and, which is the same thing in other words, to promote the improvement of mankind. But _visum aliter Deo_, and his will be done.

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Euthanasia is listed on Textopian as an essay by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, dated 1830 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Essay
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Date: 1830 CE
Language: English
Genres: Philosophical, Autobiographical, Poetic, Spiritual, Literary Essay
Length: 287 words
Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

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Genres

Philosophical — The text explores deep existential themes, reflecting on life, death, and the nature of reality.
Autobiographical — The work contains personal reflections and insights from Coleridge's own experiences and thoughts.
Poetic — The writing style is lyrical and employs poetic devices, characteristic of Coleridge's literary approach.
Spiritual — The text discusses themes of divinity, faith, and the human condition in relation to God.