Dark Days Ahead: Understanding ‘Death-Wish’
Definition: A desire, either conscious or, most often, unconscious, to die or to ruin oneself. The term dates from the late 1800s and originally was a translation from the German psychological term, Todeswunsch. By the 1930s, it was being used figuratively, as in a 1947 article from The Partisan Review: “Even in America the death-wish of the business community appears to go beyond the normal limits of political incompetence and geographical security.”
Synonyms and Related Terms:
- Thanatos (from Greek mythology)
- Suicidal tendencies
- Self-destructive urges
- Fatal attraction
- Flirting with disaster
Antonyms:
- Survival instinct
- Lust for life
- Self-preservation
Expressions and Idioms:
- Tempting fate: To take a risky action that could lead to disaster.
- Playing with fire🔥: Engaging in risky behavior or dangerous activities.
- Living on the edge: Leading a life full of excitement and risking peril.
Humor-filled Quote:
“I have a death-wish: I want to die of laughter!” - E.L. Wrumph
Proverb:
“When the will to live outweighs the wish to die, life flourishes.”
References:
- Literature: “Death Wish” by Brian Garfield – a profound look into the psychology of revenge and the drive toward self-destruction.
- Movies: “Death Wish” series starring Charles Bronson – movies about a man taking justice into his hands, driven by a personal vendetta.
- Songs: The Doors’ “Riders on the Storm” – Jim Morrison’s lyrics often explore darker themes in human nature.
- Poetry: Sylvia Plath’s “Lady Lazarus” – an introspective dive into repeated episodes of depression and the metaphorical resurrection.
Inspirational Farewell from the Author:
“While ‘dancing with a death-wish’ may sound thrilling or melancholy, remember that each day is a precious dance. Embrace life’s tune, and tread carefully on the path you choose, for the melody of existence is yours to enjoy.” - D.A. Blythe
