It's Better To Burn Out Than Fade Away Original Quote
“It’s better to burn out than fade away” is a quote that has been attributed to several famous people over the years, including Neil Young and Kurt Cobain. The meaning behind the quote is often interpreted as meaning that it is better to live a life full of passion and intensity, even if it ultimately leads to an early demise, than to live a long life of quiet desperation.
The Origin of the Quote
The quote is most commonly associated with Neil Young, who used it in his song “Hey Hey, My My (Into the Black)” in 1979. The full lyrics of the song include the line “It’s better to burn out than to fade away” as a way of emphasizing the importance of living life to the fullest and not succumbing to a slow, gradual decline.
However, it is worth noting that the quote has been used by other people over the years, including Kurt Cobain in his suicide note in 1994. Cobain wrote, “It’s better to burn out than to fade away” as a way of expressing his disillusionment with the music industry and his desire to leave behind a lasting legacy.
The Meaning of the Quote
The meaning of the quote is open to interpretation, but it is often seen as a call to live life to the fullest and not be afraid to take risks or pursue your passions, even if it means facing the possibility of failure or an early demise.
At its core, the quote is about the difference between living a life of passion and intensity versus living a life of quiet desperation. It is a reminder that life is short and that we should make the most of the time we have by pursuing the things that give us joy and fulfillment.
Burning Out vs. Fading Away
Another interpretation of the quote is that burning out is preferable to fading away. Burning out implies that you have lived a life of intensity and passion, whereas fading away suggests that you have simply given up and accepted a life of mediocrity.
Of course, burning out can have negative connotations as well, such as burning out in a blaze of glory or succumbing to addiction or other destructive behaviors. It is important to remember that the quote is not advocating for reckless behavior or self-destructive tendencies.
Applying the Quote to Your Life
So, how can you apply the quote “It’s better to burn out than fade away” to your own life? Here are a few ideas:
- Take risks: Don’t be afraid to try new things and pursue your passions, even if it means facing the possibility of failure.
- Live in the moment: Don’t get so caught up in planning for the future that you forget to enjoy the present moment.
- Find your purpose: Figure out what gives you the most fulfillment and work towards making that a central part of your life.
- Don’t settle: Don’t accept a life of mediocrity or complacency. Keep pushing yourself to grow and improve.
The Bottom Line
“It’s better to burn out than fade away” is a powerful quote that reminds us of the importance of living life to the fullest and pursuing our passions. Whether you interpret the quote as a call to take risks or a warning against settling for a life of mediocrity, it is a message that can inspire us to make the most of the time we have.