Famous quote by Caryl Chessman

"It is my hope and my belief that you will be able to report that I died with dignity, without animal fear and without bravado. I owe that much to myself"

About this Quote

Caryl Chessman's quote is a poignant reflection on the complexities of dealing with death, evoking styles of dignity, guts, and pride. As a male condemned to death, Chessman faces his mortality with a profound awareness of the two contrasting human actions to fear: catching panic or engaging in false blowing. His words expose a desire to transcend these instinctual responses, intending instead for a composed acceptance of his fate.

The phrase "died with self-respect" underscores Chessman's wish to face death without losing his sense of self-respect. Self-respect, in this context, suggests keeping composure and a calm approval of what lies ahead, reflecting strength and stability in the face of inevitable death. This desire for dignity shows a dream to maintain his identity and values regardless of the extreme scenarios he faces.

In pointing out "animal worry", Chessman acknowledges the primal instincts that develop when life is threatened. This fear, deeply embedded in our biology, can remove away the layers of cultured composure that people construct over their lifetimes. By desiring overcome this instinct, Chessman voices a desire to go beyond standard survival instincts, recommending that real courage depends on handling this fear instead of eliminating it.

Similarly, the rejection of "blowing" speaks with an avoidance of false guts-- a superficial display of strength that frequently belies inner turmoil. By separating real nerve from bravado, Chessman underscores a commitment to credibility, facing his circumstance soberly rather than masking it with bravado.

The quote also touches on self-responsibility with the expression "I owe that much to myself", revealing an individual commitment to fulfill his end on his terms. This declaration suggests an internal discussion rooted in maintaining pride and fulfilling an individual moral code, showing a deep understanding of what it means to face death honorably.

Overall, Chessman's words are an extensive meditation on the human condition in the shadow of death, exposing a desire to stabilize fear and nerve, honesty and self-respect, at the end of life.

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About the Author

Caryl Chessman This quote is from Caryl Chessman between May 27, 1921 and May 2, 1960. He was a famous Criminal from USA. The author also have 7 other quotes.
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