Carpe Diem

I consider Carpe Diem as the central theme of Dead Poets Society. It means "Seize the day". Its what Mr. Keating tells them as they look at pictures of the alumni's who attended the school as well. Mr Keating wanted the students to look at life differently. From a different point of view. He  wanted them to follow their dreams and to do their best to pursue it. To go for something they have a passion for.  He tells the students about poetry and writing. He also brings up the secret group he had when when he was there called the Dead Poets Society. Its a group where everyone reads poetry and it helps them to express their inner emotions. Each of the students learn something from this and starts to strive for something they wanted to do. Like Neil wanted to pursue a career acting, Todd finally becomes bold and Knox wanted the girl of his dreams. Even though their parents already had their life planned out, with the influence of Mr.Keating, they decided to go for what they wanted. The one student who had the most impact on me was Neil. He wanted to tell his parents about acting and wanted them to come see him perform. He did quite well for the first time and he also had the leading role. His dad of course didn't allow it and basically told Neil that'll be an embarrassment. It hurt Neil's feelings really bad but he didn't want to let his parents down. Neil eventually committed suicide because he wanted to pursue his dreams and his parents didnt let him.  Mr Keating had not only a good impact but also a some what bad impact. He told the students what to do but he didn't tell them how to do it or how to start. By that, the students were kind of rebellious. All he wanted was for his students was for them to go fro something they have a passion for. Although they got into some trouble , the students never gave up.