What Jack London Means

What Jack London means when he says, “I would rather be a superb meteor, every atom of me in magnificent glow, than a sleepy and permanent planet” is that he advocates living life at such a high intensity that you risk burning out early. This quote embodies the mindset of those who participate in extreme sports such as skydiving, base jumping, and mountain climbing. In other words, enthusiasts of extreme sports are most fulfilled when engaged in these high risk activities.

The type of life London is referring to is not taking risks for the sake of it. Instead he is talking about living life in a certain way that satisfies the need for fulfillment. “It is the same in extreme sports: while there is an awareness of risk it is not the reason most people are involved, but rather something they accept because they are looking for something deeper and more meaningful,” says Eric Brymer, a lecturer from the School of Human Movement Studies in

Rather than conforming to societal expectations you are pursuing what you believe to be your purpose. I partially agree with London because although you cannot abandon your responsibilities, the things that make up your “sleepy and permanent planet,” you should also consider the things that give your life a “magnificent glow.” London would appreciate Geoffrey Robson who was not only a qualified mechanical engineer and mathematician, but who also pursued his passion for wingsuit flying. Instead of just meeting the expectation of having a career such as a mathematician and mechanical engineer, he was dedicated to wingsuit flying. In addition to Robson, London would also appreciate the Extreme Sports Camp made up mostly of autistic children. The camp allows the kids to better cope with their day to day experiences by building confidence through extreme sports.These are both examples of not only doing what must be done but exceeding