In Samuel Beckett's works such as "Krapp's Last Tape," "Not I," "A Piece of Monologue," and "That Time," the quote "Birth was the death of him" encapsulates a profound existential theme. It suggests that the act of being born initiates a journey filled with suffering and the inevitability of death. Beckett often explores the struggles of human existence and the relentless passage of time, highlighting the futility and despair that accompany life.

This quote reflects a cyclical perception of existence, where birth, rather than being a beginning, symbolizes a demise of potential and innocence. In his character-driven narratives, Beckett delves into the complexities of memory and identity, revealing how past experiences haunt individuals. Ultimately, the quote urges readers to consider the bittersweet nature of life—a journey where the moment of birth is inextricably linked to the end of one's original self.