Meaning:
The quote "Life has a way of setting things in order and leaving them be. Very tidy, is life." by Jean Anouilh, a French playwright, reflects a profound observation about the natural order of life and the way things tend to settle into place. Anouilh, known for his thought-provoking and often philosophical works, captures the essence of life's inherent balance and organization in this simple yet profound statement.
Life, as Anouilh suggests, has a remarkable tendency to establish a sense of order and stability. This sentiment resonates with the idea that the universe operates according to certain natural laws and principles, leading to a sense of organization and structure in the world around us. Whether it is the cycles of nature, the passage of time, or the interconnectedness of events and experiences, life often unfolds in a way that seems purposeful and harmonious.
The notion of life being "tidy" implies a sense of neatness and coherence in the way events unfold and circumstances evolve. It suggests that there is a certain elegance and precision to the way things come together, creating a sense of balance and completeness. This can be observed in the natural world, where ecosystems maintain a delicate equilibrium, or in the patterns that emerge in human behavior and society.
Anouilh's observation also points to the idea of acceptance and resignation to the natural course of events. By acknowledging life's tendency to "set things in order and leaving them be," he alludes to the idea that there is a certain inevitability to the way things unfold. This acceptance of the natural flow of life can be seen as a call to embrace the present moment and find peace in the inherent order of the universe.
In the context of Anouilh's body of work, this quote may also be interpreted as a reflection of his own thematic exploration of human existence and the complexities of the human condition. His plays often delved into existential questions and the intricacies of relationships, portraying characters grappling with fate, morality, and the passage of time. Through this lens, the quote can be seen as an expression of Anouilh's contemplation of the fundamental nature of life and the human experience.
From a broader perspective, the quote invites contemplation on the nature of order and chaos in the world. It raises questions about the underlying forces that shape our lives and the interconnectedness of events that lead to a sense of coherence and structure. It also prompts consideration of the role of chance, choice, and determinism in shaping our experiences and the world around us.
In conclusion, Jean Anouilh's quote "Life has a way of setting things in order and leaving them be. Very tidy, is life." encapsulates a profound insight into the inherent order and balance of life. Through this simple yet thought-provoking observation, Anouilh invites us to contemplate the natural rhythms and organization of the world, acknowledging the elegance and inevitability of life's unfolding. It serves as a reminder to embrace the present moment and find solace in the inherent order of the universe.