How to live to be 200 by Stephen leacock summary degree 3rd semester english osmania university

For pdf join Telegram channel: Pocket studies

Summary
Stephen P. H. Butler Leacock FRSC (30 December 1869 – 28 March 1944) was a Canadian
teacher, political scientist, writer, and humourist. Between the years 1915 and 1925, he
was the best-known English-speaking humourist in the world. His notable works are
Sunshine Sketches of a Little Town, Arcadian Adventures With the Idle Rich, My financial
career.
Summary
The essay opens with Leacock reflecting on the increasing interest in longevity and the
desire to live a long life, with many people eager to surpass the average lifespan of 60 or 70
years. Leacock, however, takes a satirical approach, humorously offering some “scientific”
tips on how to reach 200 years of age.
Key Points
Diet and Exercise: Leacock begins by discussing the importance of diet and exercise. He
sarcastically advises against any regular or strenuous physical activity, as this could wear
out the body. Instead, he suggests eating only foods that are “unimaginably indigestible,”
such as “stone-hard biscuits” and “mineral waters,” to create a level of discomfort that will
force the body to resist aging. He also humorously suggests avoiding exercise entirely, as it
could be a "waste of time," since one should not risk expending energy on anything as trivial
as staying fit.
Social Relationships: Leacock humorously downplays the importance of socializing,
making the point that one should avoid interacting with people too much, especially if they
are younger. He implies that the key to longevity is not maintaining healthy relationships or
contributing to society but rather avoiding emotional strain and any form of social
engagement that could lead to stress.
The Power of a Positive Attitude: The essay also touches on the notion of maintaining a
positive attitude toward life, but again in a sarcastic manner. Leacock suggests that the
way to live a long life is by adopting a rather passive, detached view of the world, in which
one remains unconcerned with anything beyond the immediate and mundane. Constantly
avoiding mental or emotional exertion, according to Leacock, is a surefire way to preserve
one’s health and longevity.