But I was not made for the great light that devours, a dim lamp was all I had been given, and patience without end, to shine it on the empty shadows.
In Samuel Beckett's "Molloy," the protagonist reflects on his inherent limitations and the nature of his existence. He acknowledges that he does not belong in the bright, overwhelming world, symbolized by the "great light that devours." Instead, he is equipped only with a modest light, representing a more subdued perception of life and reality. This suggests that he has to navigate a world filled with darkness, illuminating only what he can, rather than experiencing the fullness of existence.
The quote highlights the theme of resilience in the face of existential challenges. The "dim lamp" signifies the protagonist's strength and patience as he strives to make sense of an often-empty reality. Despite lacking the grandeur of brighter experiences, he persists in his journey, shedding light on the shadows of his world. This encapsulates the core of Beckett's exploration of human experience, where the ability to endure and retain hope is portrayed as a noble, if solitary, endeavor.
Rate the Quote
User Reviews
Other quotes in book quote
All the things you can talk about in anyone's work are the things that are least important.
Race of Cain, ascend to heaven, And cast God down upon the earth!
