Becoming eighty is a matter of life or death. I chose life. It is a much better position to be in, and it's easier on your back.

Art Buchwald’s quote humorously reflects on the reality of aging and the choices one faces as they get older. He suggests that reaching the age of eighty is not simply a matter of time passing but of choosing to live fully, despite the challenges that come with aging. By stating, "I chose life," Buchwald emphasizes the importance of embracing life, with all its complexities, rather than surrendering to the inevitable difficulties that age brings, such as physical discomfort or mental decline.

The phrase "it’s easier on your back" adds a touch of humor, as Buchwald is acknowledging the physical toll that aging can take on the body. He implies that choosing life, with its ups and downs, is less burdensome than succumbing to a passive existence, especially when it comes to maintaining one’s physical health. It is a lighthearted yet profound observation about the importance of staying engaged with life, even as the body ages and the inevitable aches and pains set in.

Buchwald, a renowned American humorist and columnist, was known for his witty commentary on societal and personal issues, including the realities of aging. His work often incorporated humor to make serious topics more accessible. In this quote, he uses his signature wit to underscore the choice we all have in how we approach aging—not simply resigning ourselves to the inevitability of death, but opting for life with all of its challenges and rewards.

The origin of the quote lies in Buchwald’s reflections on his own experience of aging and the wisdom he gained through his career. By joking about the discomforts of getting older, he highlights an important truth: life may be hard at times, but it is still worth living. His quote speaks to the universal truth that choosing life, with all its highs and lows, is ultimately a more fulfilling way to approach aging than letting life pass you by.