Death is more merciful than hope itself! There is nothing surprising in this, for death is divinely appointed, while hope is the creation of human folly. Both end in frustration. Am I destined to lead a life of endless frustration?-{The Beginning and the End}
The quote reflects a deep philosophical view that equates death with a kind of mercy, suggesting that it can be a release from the trials of life. In contrast, hope is portrayed as a construct of human imagination that can lead to disappointment and pain. The notion implies that while death is inevitable and ordained, hope can be seen as an illusion that ultimately offers little solace, as both conditions may lead to frustration.
The speaker wrestles with the idea of being trapped in a cycle of persistent dissatisfaction, questioning whether life will be a continuous struggle. This sentiment captures the essence of human vulnerability and the existential dilemmas faced in the search for meaning, as articulated by Naguib Mahfouz in "The Beginning and the End." It invites readers to reflect on the limits of hope and the harsh realities of existence.