On the shortness of life

"Life is long if you know how to use it" - Seneca

Written as a moral essay for his friend Paulinus, Seneca's sharp words still carry a powerful message two thousand years later. With his bold rejection of materialism, conventional lifestyle and laziness "On the shortness of life" is still as relevant as ever. It anticipates the modern world. It is a unique exposition of how people get stuck in the rat race and how enough for them is never enough.

The "occupied" individuals in the definition of Seneca are the people who are too concerned with their careers and social relationships to examine in depth the quality of their lives. The message is simple: Life is long if you live it wisely. Don't waste time worrying about appearances. Don't be lazy. Don't give in to trivial entertainment and addiction.

In this translation, Seneca's essay comes alive for the modern reader. Seneca's style of language has been preserved, but the essay is attuned to the contemporary ear. This is a basic book for students of stoicism and for anyone interested in seeking an answer to the eternal question: "How should I use my time better?"