81 is a reasonably good innings, slightly above the average for the US, and just about the average for the UK (Sacks is British-American, I believe) - one wouldn't describe dying at that age as a particularly early or premature death.
I think it's hard to separate that intrinsic fact from his stoicism on the subject, impressive though it is. I'm sure it's not easy at any age to face your impending demise, but knowing you've led a pretty long and very successful life perhaps makes it an easier pill to swallow. And, to be a little cynical, we're reading this in a column in The Gray Lady - perhaps he's terrified on the inside but putting on a brave face for the public, either to keep up appearances or to be a source of inspiration for others.
Seems like this would be a good day to re-watch "Awakenings"...
I think it's hard to separate that intrinsic fact from his stoicism on the subject, impressive though it is. I'm sure it's not easy at any age to face your impending demise, but knowing you've led a pretty long and very successful life perhaps makes it an easier pill to swallow. And, to be a little cynical, we're reading this in a column in The Gray Lady - perhaps he's terrified on the inside but putting on a brave face for the public, either to keep up appearances or to be a source of inspiration for others.
Seems like this would be a good day to re-watch "Awakenings"...