Definition of Carpe diem (What it is, Concept and Definition)

carpe diem is a Latin expression meaning "enjoy the day". This is the literal translation and does not mean to enjoy a specific day, however make the most of the now, enjoy the present.

The term was written by the Roman poet Horacio (65 a. C.-8 a. C.), in Book I of "Odes", in which he advises his friend Leucone in the sentence: "...carpe diem, quam minimum credula postero". A possible translation for the phrase would be “...harvest today and trust tomorrow as little as possible”.

the meaning of carpe diem it's an invitation to enjoy the present time, enjoying the moments intensely without thinking too much about what the future holds.

see more: 7 Authors Who Say Carpe Diem In An Amazing Way.

Horacio follows the line of Epicureanism and defends that life is brief and beauty perishable. Epicureanism is a doctrine founded by the philosopher Epicurus (4th century a. C.) based on eliminating pain (whether physical or spiritual) and seeking happiness. That's why the carpe diem to Epicureanism.

The expression

carpe diem Its purpose is to remember that life is brief and ephemeral and that is why every moment should be enjoyed. This theme is very popular in the field of literature, and was of great importance at the time of the Rebirth and of mannerism.

In the movie The Dead Poets Society, the message carp diem it is given at a certain point to young students to remind them of the brevity of life and that, for this reason, they should live it in an extraordinary way.

See too:

  • Epicureanism
  • Latin phrases and their meanings
  • Definition of Veni, Vidi, Vici
  • Definition of Maktub
  • Definition of Carpe Noctem
  • Definition of Carpe diem, quam minimum credula postero
  • Rebirth

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