ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Swift's Epitaph

An epitaph is like a special message we write for someone who has passed away.

Swift was a very famous writer who lived a long time ago. He wrote many books and poems that people still read and enjoy today. When he died, his friends wanted to write a special message to remember him.

They wrote: "Here lies Jonathan Swift, where savage indignation can no longer tear his heart. Go, traveller, and imitate if you can his strenuous uprightness of life."

This means that Swift was a very passionate and honest person who always stood up for what he believed in. Even though he may have been angry about some things in his life, he no longer feels that way because he has passed away. The message also encourages others to try and live a good and honest life like Swift did.