"If Mr. Selwyn calls again, show him up; if I am alive I shall be delighted to see him; and if I am dead he would like to see me"

This interesting quote attributed to Henry Fox, a popular British political leader of the 18th century, encapsulates a nuanced blend of wit, social commentary, and reflective reflection on mortality and relationships. At its core, the declaration demonstrates a sharp, sardonic funny bone quality of the age's intellectual elite.

The phrase "If Mr. Selwyn calls again, reveal him up; if I live I shall be happy to see him" recommends a cordial and genuine relationship in between Henry Fox and the individual named Mr. Selwyn. It communicates an openness and passion to invite an esteemed visitor, indicative of mutual respect or affection.

However, the subsequent provision, "if I am dead he would like to see me", weaves in a layer of paradox and dark humor. This part of the quote alludes to Mr. Selwyn's well-documented fascination with death and the macabre. George Selwyn, a contemporary of Fox, was known for his morbid interest and frequent participation at public executions and comparable events. By referencing Selwyn's peculiar interests, Fox cleverly injects irony into the pleasantry, crafting a statement that is both an individual jest and a more comprehensive commentary on human nature's complex relationship with death and spectacle.

Additionally, the juxtaposition of life and death within the quote subtly addresses existential themes. Fox acknowledges the certainty of death but approaches it with levity, reflecting an approval of death. By intertwining this recommendation with humor, Fox possibly suggests a philosophical technique to life, advocating for grace and wit even in considering one's end.

Overall, Fox's quote serves both as an expression of individual relationships and a broader commentary on the character of individuals captivated by death. It encapsulates the interplay in between social customs, private peculiarities, and the universal human experience of life and death. The mix of warmth, paradox, and philosophical undertones guarantees the quote remains a vibrant artifact of 18th-century wit and introspection.