And when reproached with this Sam with ready wit replied that paralysed as he was, from the waist up, and from the knees down, he had no purpose, interest or joy in life other than this, to set out after a good dinner of meat and vegetables in his wheel-chair and stay out committing adultery until it was time to go home to his supper, after which he was at his wife's disposal.
In Samuel Beckett's novel "Watt," the character Sam responds humorously to criticism about his lifestyle. Despite being physically limited, he expresses a lack of any meaningful purpose, interest, or joy beyond indulging in a life of escapades after enjoying a meal. His admission reveals a view of life focused solely on immediate pleasures, contrasting sharply with societal expectations of purpose and fulfillment.
Sam's witty response highlights both the absurdity and the stripped-down nature of his existence. He openly admits to leading a double life, engaging in fleeting relationships yet returning dutifully to his wife, suggesting a complex interplay of loyalty and desire. This interaction provides insight into Beckett's exploration of human experience, showcasing the themes of identity, limitation, and the pursuit of pleasure amidst existential challenges.
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