In Letter 71, titled "On the Supreme Good," Seneca discusses the nature of the Supreme Good and the importance of aligning one's life with this ultimate goal. He begins by acknowledging the difficulties of providing timely advice across long distances but emphasizes the necessity of grounding decisions in the overarching purpose of life. Seneca explains the importance of having a clear aim in life: "The artist…
In Letter 70, titled "On the Proper Time to Slip the Cable," Seneca reflects on the nature of life, death, and the appropriate time to commit suicide. In my opinion, this is probably the most controversial letter he wrote. It should be noted that this is not a Stoic view but only that of Seneca - his take on how to take back your freedom . There was never this…
In Seneca letter 63, "On Grief for Lost Friends," addresses the emotional response to the death of a friend and offers Stoic wisdom on managing grief. Seneca acknowledges the naturalness of sorrow but advises moderation, promoting a philosophical approach to dealing with loss. This letter serves as a guide on maintaining emotional balance and finding peace after a loved one's departure. Seneca starts by expressing sympathy…
In Letter 61, "On Meeting Death Cheerfully," is a profound exposition on accepting and preparing for death as a natural part of life. Seneca uses this letter to emphasize the importance of living well in the present moment, with an awareness of death's inevitability, encouraging a stance of readiness rather than fear. "I am endeavouring to live every day as if it were a complete life." Seneca Tweet This Quote…
In letters from a Stoic, the Roman Senator and Stoic philosopher Seneca would write to his friend Lucilius to remind him of the shortness of human lives and why we should live it on a per-day basis. To make a point, he would borrow a remark from the philosopher Heraclitus saying “One day is equal to every day.” He goes to explain that “One day is equal…
