Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[Chloe Wu]

Dear teachers:

I know this is a Latin term, which means "seize the day." Also, I checked the dictionary and found other explanation " enjoy the present, as opposed to placing all hope in the future" and "an admonition to seize the pleasures of the moment without concern for the future." It seems to be negative.

However, in the film "Dead Poets Society," the teacher(portayed by Robin Williams) used the term to encourage his students not to follow what their parents wanted them to be(doctors, lawyers and bankers), but follow what were inside their hearts. In that way, they would not regret in the future.

And I am a little bit confused about the usage of the term. Is it used in a positive way or a negative way? Or both the ways are accepted, just depending on the context?

Best wishes,
Chloe

[Eric Thompson]

Dear Chloe Wu: It depends on the point of view. From the point of view of the person telling you to 'seize the day', it is positive. We assume that he/she is honest in saying it, and sincerely wants you to have a happy life. From the point of view of conservative society and probably mom and dad, it is negative, as they don't want to hear it. Ok? -- Eric

[CP]

My Latin teacher of four years, Jack Christopher, had a bust of Augustus and a sign reading "CARPE DIEM" in his class. He too translated it as "seize the day," but he said it meant don't let today slip by without doing something important; don't procrastinate (put things off until tomorrow, from Latin, pro meaning for, and cras meaning tomorrow, and tinere meaning to hold); do it today.

If that's not positive, I don't know what is.
_________________
You live a new life for every new language you speak. -Czech proverb

[Chloe Wu]

Dear Eric Thompson and CP:

Now as I can see, "carpe diem" is commonly used in a positive way but we has to bank on different situations and viewpoints to use it properly.

Thanks for your help!

Chloe