J.P. Donleavy: Gratitude or Fear
on Sunday, July 22, 2012Money Quotation saying We always yearn for what we don’t have or fear that which could take our current possessions away, rather than have gratitude for what is ours. J. P. Donleavy said:
“When you don’t have any money, the problem is food. When you have money, it’s sex. When you have both, it’s health. If everything is simply jake, then you’re frightened of death” — J. P. Donleavy
This quote from author J.P. Donleavy seems to suggest that different concerns take precedence in life depending on one’s basic needs and circumstances. For those without money, the main problem is obtaining sufficient food for survival. Once food is assured, money brings new issues around sex and relationships.
And for those who have both financial security and intimacy, health becomes the primary worry. The quote implies that only when all basic needs are met can a person afford to ponder the existential question of mortality. Overall, Donleavy appears to be observing how human priorities shift upwards along with increased comfort and privilege.
Birthday: April 23, 1926 – Death: September 11, 2017