People
So we shall let the reader answer this question for himself: Who is the happier man, he who has braved the storm of life and lived, or he who has stayed securely on shore and merely existed?
— Hunter S. Thompson · The Proud Highway
Behind the line May contain spoilers.
Our reading
An editorial interpretation.
The passage asks readers to choose between a life exposed to storms and one kept safe on shore. Its wording already favours adventure by contrasting living with merely existing. The question invites reflection on happiness, while its metaphor gives risk the stronger emotional appeal.
Context reviewed