No human being is separate and isolated from the rest of humanity, like an island entirely on its own. Instead, every person is a part of the big metaphorical landmass that is humanity itself, one small piece of a larger whole. If a tiny lump of earth were to disappear into the ocean, then Europe would get smaller—just as it would get smaller if a big chunk of the coast broke off, or if your friend's house, or your own house, were to wash away. Likewise, the death of any person affects me, because I am a part of humanity. So, if you hear the death-knell ringing, never ask who it's ringing for: it's ringing for you.