John Keating

We don’t just live to eat, sleep, and work. We live to enjoy life. Words, love, beauty, and dreams — these are what make life special. We are all going to die one day. So don’t waste time. Make your life meaningful. Do something different. Don’t just follow others. Think for yourself. Write your own story. Live your own life. The world is waiting for your voice. So speak. Live now. Make today count. That’s what it means to really live.

In Dead Poets Society, John Keating says “We don’t just live to eat” to show that life is not only about basic needs. He says poetry and art are important for the soul. He tells his students to think for themselves and follow their dreams. He also teaches them to live the moment with the idea of Carpe Diem. This scene is different from normal school lessons. It helps students feel free and understand their emotions. Keating’s words change how the students see life. He wants them to not only stay alive, but to really live and enjoy life.