In John Steinbeck's "East of Eden," Samuel questions a character about the pride they take in their suffering. He suggests that indulging in pain may create a sense of importance or tragedy, likening it to performing for an audience of one. This introspection implies that finding meaning in one's own hurt might lead to a self-centered existence.

Samuel expresses concern about the value of life unfulfilled, equating it to wasted potential. He reflects on personal experiences with waste, indicating that he cannot afford to let life pass by without purpose. This leads him to question whether it is wise to allow one's existence to remain unproductive or neglected.