And Watt preferred on the whole having to do with things of which he did not know the name, though this too was painful to Watt, to having to do with things of which the known name, the proven name, was not the name, any more, for him. For he could always hope, of a thing of which he had never known the name, that he would learn the name, some day, and so be tranquilized.
In Samuel Beckett's "Watt," the protagonist exhibits a complex relationship with knowledge and understanding. Watt finds himself more at ease dealing with unknown entities than confronting situations where familiar names no longer provide clarity. This struggle highlights a profound discomfort when established concepts and identities shift, leaving him in a state of anxiety. His preference for ambiguity suggests a desire to explore the unknown, hoping that with time, understanding may emerge.
Watt's journey reflects a universal desire for comprehension and stability. The notion that there is hope in the unknown conveys a sense of optimism amidst confusion. Rather than succumb to the distress of names losing their meaning, Watt’s inclination to embrace the unfamiliar signifies a search for personal growth and enlightenment. By seeking out what he does not yet know, he preserves a sense of tranquility and possibility for future understanding.
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