A Matter of Life and Death
Definition
An issue of vital importance. This term, used since the mid-nineteenth century, could arguably be clearer as “a matter of life or death,” and it is indeed sometimes used this way. An 1837 letter from Charles Dickens illustrates this, stating, “It is a matter of life or death to us, to know whether you have got Ainsworth’s MS yet.” Nonetheless, “a life-and-death matter” appears with equal frequency.
Synonyms
- Critical issue
- Life-or-death situation
- Moment of truth
- Dire emergency
Antonyms
- Trivial matter
- Minor detail
- Small potatoes
- Unimportant issue
Humor
“Life and death matters mean 10:00 AM meetings aren’t about who’s bringing the donuts.” - Anonymous Office Warrior
Proverbs
- “Necessity knows no law.” - St. Augustine’s Latin proberb
- “Desperate times call for desperate measures.” - English proverb
- “To the living we owe respect, but to the dead we owe only the truth.” - Voltaire
Suggested Literature
- Book: “Crime and Punishment” by Fyodor Dostoevsky – This classic novel by Dostoevsky dives headfirst into high-stakes decisions and their moral ramifications.
- Song: “It’s My Life” by Bon Jovi – This rock anthem celebrates taking control of your destiny and making pivotal choices.
- Movie: “Schindler’s List” – A poignant film documenting the life-saving decisions made during terrible times.
Fun Facts
- Charles Dickens was involved in a train accident in 1865, but assisted the wounded, seemingly placing everyone’s lives, quite literally, as “a matter of life and death.”
Inspirational Quote
“To the well-organized mind, death is but the next great adventure.” - J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
An intricate life faces moments as crucial as any, recognizing the gravity of “a matter of life and death” moments defines not just our character but our destiny.
Stay sharp, live well, choose wisely.
- Brought to you by Jules Bravado, October 2023
