Meaning: This quote by Nazim Hikmet, a renowned Turkish poet, presents a profound reflection on the nature of life and the significance of living with utmost seriousness. Hikmet's words convey a sense of urgency and purpose, emphasizing the need to fully engage in the act of living without constantly seeking something beyond the present moment. Through the analogy of a squirrel, Hikmet suggests that just as a squirrel diligently focuses on gathering and storing food for survival, humans should approach life with the same level of dedication and commitment.

In these lines, Hikmet challenges the conventional notion of living as a casual or lighthearted endeavor. Instead, he calls for a deep and unwavering dedication to the act of living, emphasizing the importance of making it one's primary occupation. By likening the seriousness of living to the focused behavior of a squirrel, Hikmet underscores the idea that living should not be taken lightly or as a secondary consideration in the pursuit of other abstract or transcendent goals.

Hikmet's perspective on life reflects a sense of urgency and immediacy, urging individuals to embrace the present moment and fully engage with the experience of living. His words convey a rejection of any tendency to view life as a mere prelude to something greater or as a transient phase leading to an elusive higher purpose. Instead, he emphasizes the inherent value and significance of living itself, advocating for a wholehearted immersion in the act of living without seeking external validation or meaning.

The quote also carries a sense of existential contemplation, inviting readers to reflect on the profound responsibility of being alive. By exhorting individuals to approach life with great seriousness, Hikmet prompts a reevaluation of priorities and a reconsideration of the ways in which people choose to engage with their existence. His words resonate as a reminder of the preciousness and fragility of life, urging individuals to embrace the full spectrum of human experience with a sense of purpose and dedication.

Furthermore, Hikmet's emphasis on the seriousness of living can be interpreted as a call to action, encouraging individuals to fully invest themselves in the present moment and to take responsibility for their choices and actions. By highlighting the occupation of living, Hikmet invokes a sense of duty and commitment to the act of being alive, emphasizing the need to approach life with diligence, intention, and a profound sense of purpose.

In conclusion, Nazim Hikmet's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of living with great seriousness and dedication. Through the analogy of a squirrel and the rejection of seeking something beyond and above living, Hikmet challenges individuals to embrace the act of living as their primary occupation, urging them to engage with life with unwavering commitment and purpose. His words resonate as a powerful call to fully embrace the present moment and to approach the experience of living with profound reverence and intention.