In the context provided by Hanya Yanagihara, the statement suggests that society often views death as a defeat or loss, akin to losing a battle. This perspective implies that life itself is inherently victorious, and when it ends, one has failed in some sense. However, this viewpoint simplifies the complex nature of existence and the experience of living.
Delving deeper into Yanagihara's words, there is an underlying critique of how we ascribe value to life and death. By framing death as a loss, we may overlook or downplay the meaningful aspects that occur during one’s lifetime. This perspective challenges readers to consider whether every aspect of life truly equates to winning, or if there are moments of struggle, ambiguity, and even defeat that are equally significant in shaping who we are. It prompts us to reflect on how we measure success and failure in the context of a human lifespan.
Hanya Yanagihara is an American novelist known for her profound exploration of themes such as loss, love, and societal expectations. Her works often delve into complex emotional landscapes, making her insights about life and death particularly poignant and thought-provoking.
