The Profound Wisdom of Simone Beauvoir: Exploring Human Stories and Death

In a captivating video on Imgur titled "Stories," a deeply philosophical discussion unfolds about the nature of human existence and the inevitability of death. The video opens with a poignant reflection: "Human stories are always about one thing, aren't they? Death. Inevitability of death." This thought-provoking statement sets the stage for a deeper exploration of mortality and human experience.

The video features a quotation from the renowned French philosopher Simone Beauvoir, read from a newspaper: "There is no such thing as a natural death. Nothing that happens to man is ever natural, since his presence calls the whole world into question. All men must die, but for every man his death is an accident. And even if he knows it and consents to it, an unjustifiable violation." Beauvoir's words resonate powerfully, challenging conventional notions of death and highlighting its profound impact on human consciousness.

Viewers of the video were quick to share their thoughts and reactions. One user expressed admiration for the person who keeps Beauvoir's quote in their wallet, while another found it fascinating that Simone Beauvoir's work was being read, noting the often overlooked contributions of women philosophers. Another comment praised the wisdom imparted in the video, emphasizing the value of learning from great thinkers.

A particularly insightful comment drew a parallel between storytelling and mortality, stating, "Most, if not all, stories begin with the death of the principal protagonist. It is in this sense that one can say that storytellers are Death’s secretaries." This metaphor underscores the intimate connection between narrative and the human condition, suggesting that death is a central theme in the stories we tell.

The discussion also veered into literary territory, with mentions of characters from J.R.R. Tolkien's works. One user questioned the nature of death in Tolkien's universe, asking, "But don’t Sam, Frodo, and Bilbo all overcome death by sailing to the undying lands? Or would that be considered them accepting their death?" This comment highlights the nuanced interpretations of death in different contexts, whether literary or philosophical.

William Faulkner's famous quote, "The only thing worth writing about is the human heart," was also invoked, adding another layer to the conversation about the themes that resonate most deeply in literature and life.

The video and its accompanying comments offer a rich tapestry of reflections on death, storytelling, and human nature. From Simone Beauvoir's philosophical insights to the literary musings of Tolkien's fans, the dialogue underscores the universal preoccupation with mortality and the ways in which it shapes our narratives.

Intriguing and thought-provoking, this video serves as a reminder of the profound questions that lie at the heart of human existence, inviting viewers to ponder their own stories and the inevitable end that awaits us all.