The principal business of life is to enjoy it

Samuel Butler, born on December 4, 1835, was an English novelist, essayist, and critic whose works defied convention and challenged prevailing Victorian ideals.

Background and Literary Journey

• Early Life: Samuel Butler was the son of the Reverend Thomas Butler and the grandson of Samuel Butler, headmaster of Shrewsbury School. Born at Langar Rectory in Nottinghamshire, England, he grew up in a religious household.
• Cambridge Years: After studying at St. John’s College, Cambridge, Butler’s independent spirit led him away from his father’s expectations of becoming a clergyman. Instead, he immersed himself in music, drawing, and intellectual pursuits.
• Emigration to New Zealand: Seeking adventure, Butler emigrated to New Zealand, where he set up a sheep run in the Canterbury settlement. It was there that he encountered Darwin’s “Origin of Species”, which profoundly influenced his worldview.
• Religion and Evolution: Butler’s attention gravitated toward religion and evolution. Initially embracing Darwinism, he later rejected it because it seemed to exclude God. His life became a quest for truth, often at odds with both the church and orthodox Darwinians.
• Notable Works:
  • “Erewhon” (1872): A satirical novel that anticipated the collapse of Victorian notions of eternal progress.
  • “The Way of All Flesh” (1903): His autobiographical novel, considered his masterpiece, delves into family, religion, and societal expectations.

Die Bedeutung hinter dem Zitat

“All animals, except humans, know that the principal business of life is to enjoy it.”

• Universal Wisdom: Butler’s quote cuts to the core of existence. Animals, unburdened by human complexities, instinctively grasp life’s purpose: to savor it.
• Joy as Innate: Animals don’t overanalyze; they revel in the present moment. Whether it’s a squirrel darting through leaves or a bird singing at dawn, they embody joy.
• Human Complexity: Humans, with our intricate minds, often complicate joy. We chase elusive goals, worry about the past, and fret about the future. Yet, deep down, we yearn for the simplicity of joy.
• Rediscovering Joy: Butler invites us to unlearn our complexities, to return to our primal wisdom. Joy isn’t a luxury; it’s our birthright. It’s the sun on our faces, laughter shared, and moments of awe.
• The Principal Business: Amid life’s hustle, let’s remember our principal business: to enjoy it. Like animals, let’s bask in the simple pleasures—sunsets, warm tea, and the touch of a loved one.
• A Subtle Rebellion: In celebrating joy, we rebel against a world that often glorifies busyness and achievement. It’s a quiet revolution—an embrace of life’s sweetness.

So, let’s heed the wisdom of animals: joy is our compass, and life’s business is to savor it, one delightful moment at a time.