In fact, it comes to this: nobody is capable of really thinking about anyone, even in the worst calamity. For really to think about someone means thinking about that person every minute of the day, without letting one's thoughts be diverted by anything- by meals, by a fly that settles on one's cheek, by household duties, or by a sudden itch somewhere. But there are always flies and itches. That's why life is difficult to live.
In Albert Camus' "The Plague," the author reflects on the nature of human concern and empathy during times of crisis. He suggests that true thoughtfulness towards another person requires an unwavering focus and constant vigilance, which is nearly impossible to maintain. Everyday distractions, such as basic needs and minor irritations, constantly pull our attention away, making it difficult to genuinely think about someone else.
This idea expresses a profound truth about human relationships and the challenges of sustaining deep empathy. The acknowledgment that even in dire situations, our minds can be fragmented by trivial matters highlights the complexity of emotional connections. Camus underscores the struggle of maintaining continuous awareness of others, suggesting that these challenges make life inherently difficult to navigate.
