Meaning: The quote "For a person who is dying only eternity counts" by Friedrich Dürrenmatt encapsulates the profound significance of time and perspective in the face of mortality. Friedrich Dürrenmatt, a Swiss playwright and author known for his philosophical insights and compelling narratives, often delved into existential themes and the human condition in his works. This particular quote reflects the intense focus on eternity and the timeless nature of existence that consumes an individual as they approach the end of their life.

In the context of the quote, the emphasis on "only eternity" underscores the transformative shift in perception that occurs when one is confronted with their mortality. Time, as experienced by the dying person, transcends the constraints of the present moment and expands into the limitless expanse of eternity. The immediacy of everyday concerns and temporal measures becomes inconsequential, replaced by a relentless awareness of the infinite and the enduring.

This perspective speaks to the profound psychological and emotional impact of facing death. It highlights the prioritization of eternal considerations over the transient aspects of life, as the individual grapples with the impending transition into the unknown. In this state of heightened awareness, the concept of eternity becomes the sole measure of significance, overshadowing all other temporal considerations.

Furthermore, the quote invites contemplation on the nature of human existence and the universal experience of mortality. It acknowledges the universal truth that, regardless of one's beliefs or circumstances, the finality of death confronts every individual with the inescapable reality of their own mortality. In this light, the quote serves as a poignant reminder of the fundamental equality of all people in the face of eternity, transcending differences and uniting humanity in a shared experience of mortality.

Dürrenmatt's exploration of these existential themes aligns with his broader body of work, which often delves into the complexities of human nature and the fundamental questions of existence. Through his writings, Dürrenmatt invites readers to confront the profound and often unsettling truths that underpin the human experience, challenging them to grapple with the implications of mortality and the enduring nature of eternity.

In conclusion, Friedrich Dürrenmatt's quote "For a person who is dying only eternity counts" encapsulates the profound shift in perspective and the intense focus on eternity that accompanies the experience of confronting mortality. It invites contemplation on the universal truths of human existence, transcending temporal concerns to underscore the enduring significance of eternity in the face of death. Dürrenmatt's exploration of these themes reflects his enduring contribution to philosophical and existential discourse, inviting readers to confront the timeless truths that shape the human condition.