Meaning: The quote "Cast away care, he that loves sorrow Lengthens not a day, nor can buy tomorrow; Money is trash, and he that will spend it, Let him drink merrily, fortune will send it." by Thomas Dekker, a dramatist from the Elizabethan era, reflects themes of carefree living, the transience of wealth, and the pursuit of happiness. This quote encapsulates the essence of living in the moment and not being consumed by worries or material possessions.

In the first part of the quote, "Cast away care, he that loves sorrow Lengthens not a day, nor can buy tomorrow," Dekker encourages individuals to let go of their worries and not to dwell on sorrow. This advice speaks to the idea that focusing on negative emotions or burdensome concerns does not add value to one's life. Instead, it suggests that such attitudes only serve to prolong the feeling of unhappiness and prevent the enjoyment of the present moment. By advocating the casting away of care, Dekker promotes a mindset of mindfulness and living in the present rather than being preoccupied with concerns about the future.

The second part of the quote, "Money is trash, and he that will spend it, Let him drink merrily, fortune will send it," presents a somewhat paradoxical view of money and its significance. Dekker seems to imply that money, in the grand scheme of things, is ultimately insignificant or fleeting. This notion aligns with the idea that material wealth should not be the sole focus of one's existence. The phrase "Let him drink merrily, fortune will send it" suggests that spending money joyfully and without worry may lead to its replenishment. This could be interpreted as a call to embrace a more carefree and optimistic approach to managing finances, trusting that good fortune will follow those who live lightheartedly and without undue concern for material wealth.

When considering the historical context in which Dekker lived and wrote, it becomes evident that his words may have resonated with the societal challenges and uncertainties of his time. The Elizabethan era was marked by economic fluctuations, social stratification, and widespread uncertainty, as well as a burgeoning spirit of exploration and adventure. In this context, Dekker's advice to cast away care and embrace a merry attitude toward life and money may have provided solace and guidance to individuals navigating the complexities of their existence.

In summary, Thomas Dekker's quote embodies a philosophy of carefree living, emphasizing the transient nature of sorrow and money. Through his words, he encourages individuals to let go of worries, live joyfully, and trust in the potential for fortune to follow. This timeless wisdom continues to hold relevance in contemporary society, reminding us to prioritize present happiness and well-being over undue concern for the future or material wealth.