Final answer:
This is an example of a paradox, which presents a contradictory statement that reveals a deeper truth.
Step-by-step explanation:
This is an example of paradox, which is a figure of speech that presents a contradictory statement that, on closer examination, reveals a deeper truth. In this case, the statement 'You survived because you were the first. You survived because you were the last.' presents a contradiction, as one would expect that survival would require being either the first or the last, but not both. The paradoxical nature of the statement highlights the complex and unpredictable nature of survival.