Countless esteemed figures have shared insights into their personal experiences with sleep over the ages.
Each one of us has our own unique connection with sleep, and it’s likely that the quotations gathered here will strike a chord with you.
Homer (circa 750BC) A sculpture of the legendary Greek poet Homer Excess, even in sleep, is to be avoided. (It’s true, excess is detrimental. Anything in excess can harm you. Even an excess of water isn’t good for you! “Too much” is, by definition, an excessive amount.)
William Shakespeare (1564-1616)
“Stitches of Serenity: Reflections on Rest by Historic Voices”
William Shakespeare (1564-1616) Sleep intertwines the frayed edges of our worries, ends the day’s turmoil, soothes weary tasks, heals troubled spirits, serves as nature’s restorative course, and stands as the principal nurture in life’s banquet. (A poetic way of acknowledging sleep’s rejuvenating power.)
Edgar Allan Poe (1809-1849) To me, sleep feels like those brief glimpses of death – which I detest. (It’s typical of the writer, known for his haunting and eerie tales, to have such a dark view of sleep.)
Mahatma Gandhi (1869-1948) Each evening, when I sleep, I experience a small death. And each morning, when I wake, I am reborn. (This perspective reflects his Hindu beliefs in reincarnation, suggesting that each day is a new life.)
Wilson Mizener (1876-1933) The average person’s need for sleep is always just an additional five minutes. (A humorous observation that many can relate to.)
Ernest Hemingway (1899-1961)
“Slumbers and Stirrings: Candid Musings on Sleep from Notable Individuals”
Ernest Hemingway (1899-1961) I find solace in sleep, as my life seems to unravel when I’m awake. (A candid admission that reflects Hemingway’s turbulent life and his appreciation for the escape that sleep provides.)
Dr. Seuss (1904-1991) Dr. Seuss accompanied by figures of his imaginative creations Being so in love that sleep eludes you because reality is now more enchanting than your dreams. (A personal take, indeed! In my own dreams, I’m gifted with the power of flight.)
Anthony Burgess (1917-1993) Anthony Burgess, enjoying a cigarillo When you laugh, the world joins in; when you snore, you’re often left to sleep solo. (A witty remark on the solitary consequence of snoring.)
Donald Trump (1946-present day) Donald Trump pictured with law enforcement during a court proceeding I have acquaintances who are high achievers yet sleep for ten hours a night, and I question them, ‘How can you vie with someone like me when I only need four hours?’ It’s seldom feasible. No matter your level of brilliance, a day has its limits. (He takes pride in his limited need for sleep.)
Elon Musk (1971-present day)
“I’ve experimented with cutting down my sleep, but I’ve found that even with more waking hours, my productivity doesn’t necessarily increase. We trust that these quotations have provided you with some reflections on your own views of sleep and perhaps have even influenced your actual perceptions of rest.”
