In the history of the world many souls have been, are, and will be, and with a little reflection this is marvelous and not depressing. Many jerks are made gloomy about it, for they think quantity buries them alive. That's just crazy. Numbers are very dangerous, but the main thing about them is that they humble your pride. And that's good.
In his book "Henderson the Rain King," Saul Bellow reflects on the vastness of human existence and the multitude of souls that have lived throughout time. The sheer number of individuals can be overwhelming, but Bellow encourages a positive perspective, suggesting that acknowledging this abundance is a marvelous realization rather than one that should lead to despair.
He points out that some individuals become pessimistic when confronted with the sheer volume of humanity, mistakenly believing that it diminishes their own significance. However, Bellow argues that while numbers may seem daunting, they ultimately serve to humble one's pride, which is a beneficial perspective. This humility can inspire introspection and a deeper appreciation for one's place in the world.