The Old Man and Death

Summary

The story presents a parable about a weary Old Man who, worn out from carrying heavy wood to the city, impetuously calls out to “Death” in a moment of exhaustion. When “Death” actually appears and inquires why he was summoned, the Old Man quickly changes his request, asking “Death” to help him with his burden instead of embracing his end. This highlights the theme of appreciating life despite its hardships, suggesting that in moments of fatigue or despair, people may momentarily wish for release but ultimately fear death more than they dislike their burdens. It serves as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the instinctive desire to persevere.

Read Online

An Old Man was employed in cutting wood in the forest, and, in carrying the bundles to the city for sale one day, became very wearied with his long journey. He sat down by the wayside, and throwing down his load, besought “Death” to come. “Death” immediately appeared in answer to his summons and asked for what reason he had called him. The Old Man hurriedly replied, “That, lifting up the load, you may place it again upon my shoulders.”