I asked her to look at me and after a few moments - (pause) - after a few moments she did, but the eyes just slits, because of the glare I bent over her to get them in the shadow and they opened. (Pause. Low) Let me in.
Samuel BeckettRead
It is right that he too should have his little chronicle, his memories, his reason, and be able to recognize the good in the bad, the bad in the worst, and so grow gently old down all the unchanging days, and die one day like any other day, only shorter.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects on the importance of personal memories and finding balance in life, accepting both good and bad experiences.
Samuel Beckett's quote emphasizes the significance of individual experiences and memories in shaping one's life journey. It suggests that everyone has their own narrative that combines both joyful and sorrowful moments, and through this recognition, one can navigate the complexities of existence more gracefully. Ultimately, it alludes to the inevitability of aging and death, portraying them as natural parts of life that are nuanced by our perceptions.
Themes
MemoriesLifeBalanceAgingAcceptance
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech at a friend’s memorial, this quote could be used to highlight the importance of memories and acceptance of life's cycles.
More from Samuel Beckett
All quotes →Nothing happens. Nobody comes, nobody goes. It's awful.
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I shall state silences more competently than ever a better man spangled the butterflies of vertigo.
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And what I have, what I am, is enough, was always enough for me, and as far as my dear little sweet little future is concerned I have no qualms, I have a good time coming.
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I love order. It's my dream. A world where all would be silent and still, and each thing in its last place, under the last dust.
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We lose our hair, our teeth! Our bloom, our ideals.
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