I got stunned by this Venetian maxim a moment ago. Actually, I got worried a bit: “How well do I feel?” I shook my head in disbelief. “Do I feel well enough to die?” Luckily, I presently remembered my beloved, who is far away. “Phew,” I relaxed at once, “I do not feel well enough!” Venetian maxims do have a powerful effect on me, no doubt whatsoever.

Addendum I (February 11, 2017)

So many years later, I beg to differ. Now I do feel well enough to die. As luck would have it, my beloved is also close to me at present. But the old Venetian maxim says a great deal about the charms of old age. This is when one feels well in spite of everything. Although I am not old enough to feel that way, my liberation is behind me by now. And I feel well, indeed. Whenever death comes along, it will be welcomed with open arms, as well as a big hug and a kiss. Welcome, old friend!

Addendum II (April 23, 2025)

So many more years later, I am in tune with the Venetian maxim once again. My former beloved is history by now (“Troubles,” December 31, 2024). And I am happy to report that our decision to part our ways is very close to my heart ever since we made it together. By and large, my life is close to perfect. Actually, splendid. Perhaps the only thing that still keeps me going is my writing project, which will be completed in four or five years at most. Afterwards, death will be welcomed with open arms for true. After all, it is the greatest gift imaginable to a human being (see, e.g., “Bravo!” October 23, 1994). Three cheers for clever Venetians of yesteryear!

Footnote

1. Cibotto, G.A., ed., Proverbi del Veneto, Firenze: Giunti Gruppo Editoriale, 1992 (first published in 1976), p. 65.