The quote "If you want to play, you gotta pay" from Stephen King's book Duma Key suggests that engaging in certain activities or pursuits comes with costs and consequences. It emphasizes the idea that if one wishes to experience something meaningful or rewarding, they must be ready to face the challenges or sacrifices that accompany it. This reflects a broader theme in life where pleasure often requires effort or risk.

In Duma Key, this notion resonates with the characters' journeys as they navigate their desires and the repercussions of their choices. King often illustrates how creative endeavors, while fulfilling, can demand personal prices, whether through emotional turmoil or physical challenges. The quote encapsulates the essence of commitment required to truly engage in one's passions.