Letter #41 A Letter of Appreciation, Beauty of Life & Kazuo Ishiguro's "The Remains of the Day"

Good friends, good books, and a sleepy conscience: this is the ideal life. ― Mark Twain

Dear Friend,

In my recent letters, I've found myself consistently delving into existentialism and profound philosophy, exploring the depths of the human mind. While these topics have their place, I believe it's time for a change of perspective.

I value honesty in my expressions, and in this letter, I'd like to discuss the wonders that life has to offer. Embracing nihilism and existentialism can be alluring in their own ways, but it's essential to strike a balance and not lose sight of the enchanting aspects of existence. The very beauty of it and how wonderful it’s to stay alive.

Recently, I experienced a profound shift in my outlook. On my 18th birthday, I encountered an accident that required surgery under general anesthesia. The experience was transformative, unlike a mere deep sleep. While I was unconscious, it felt as though time had no hold over me. But when I opened my eyes, I was filled with a newfound appreciation for life.

This incident reminded me that life is a precious gift, and each moment we spend breathing is an opportunity to cherish the world around us. It's true that our understanding is limited to what appears in our consciousness, but that doesn't diminish the significance of the moments we live and experience.

It is not unusual for me to occasionally find myself drawn into the abyss of existential contemplation. During one such period, I vividly recall seeking refuge in audiobooks, and one particular masterpiece that lifted me from that existential pit was Kazuo Ishiguro's "The Remains of the Day," a Booker Prize-winning novel. This poignant tale revolves around Stevens, a dedicated butler who devoted his life to his work. As he reflects on his past, he comes to the poignant realization that he had missed out on so much of life's richness.

May this letter serve as a gentle reminder to pause, take a deep breath, and bask in the sheer beauty of life's offerings.

I’ll write again, my friend.

Yours,

Bohemian Dialogue