⏳ Not Long for This World: Expressions of Ephemeral Existence 🌍
Ah, the bittersweet phrase, “Not long for this world.” Is there any phrase more hauntingly poetic than this? Usually used to describe someone who is expected to live for only a short time, this expression has a rich history and an enduring charm that has been captivating audiences for centuries. One of its early known instances was used in a letter by Lord Byron in 1822: “If it is, I cannot be long for this world.”
Related and Similar Terms
- At death’s door: Close to dying.
- On borrowed time: Existing on time that has been miraculously extended.
- Living on the edge: In a precarious or risky situation.
- One foot in the grave: Close to death.
Synonyms
- Mortal
- Ephemeral
- Fleeting
- Transient
Antonyms
- Eternal
- Immortal
- Perennial
- Enduring
Examples in Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies
- “Death of a Salesman” by Arthur Miller: A harrowing tale of a man who realizes he is not long for this world.
- “The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green: Explores the ephemeral nature of life.
- “One Sweet Day” by Mariah Carey & Boyz II Men: A song lamenting the short time we have.
Humor-Filled Quote
“I told the doctor I broke my leg in two places. He told me to quit going to those places.” —Henny Youngman
Proverbs and Idioms
- Proverb: “Time and tide wait for no man.”
- Idiom: “Burning the candle at both ends.”
Quiz Section
### Which of these phrases means someone is nearly dead?
- [ ] On sunshine's edge
- [x] One foot in the grave
- [ ] Dancing with moonbeams
- [ ] Running backwards in time
> **Explanation:** "One foot in the grave" means that someone is very close to dying.
### What does "living on borrowed time" imply?
- [x] Unexpectedly surviving longer than anticipated
- [ ] Borrowing time from someone else
- [ ] Taking too many vacations
- [ ] Living on short intervals of success
> **Explanation:** "Living on borrowed time" means someone is living longer than expected, as if by a miracle.
### True or False: "At death's door" implies someone is having fun.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** "At death's door" clearly means someone is very close to death, not enjoying life.
### Which of the following refers to temporary existence?
- [ ] Immortal
- [ ] Perennial
- [x] Ephemeral
- [ ] Eternal
> **Explanation:** "Ephemeral" describes something lasting for a very short time.
Inspirational Farewell Thought
As you meander through the corridors of life’s ephemeral moments, remember to stop and savor the fleeting seconds, for they are what make time so profoundly meaningful.
— W. T. Wittywords
Published on 2023-10-01
