It is by the nadir that we come, said Watt, and it is by the nadir that we go, whatever that means. And the artist must have felt something of this kind too, for the circle did not turn, as circles will, but sailed steadfast in its white skies, with its patient breach for ever below.
In Samuel Beckett's "Watt," the character reflects on the concept of the 'nadir,' suggesting a connection to the depths of experience and existence. This notion implies that while life begins and ends at a low point, the artist also resonates with this journey, indicating that creation and expression emerge from these deep places. The idea embodies a paradox, where the struggles and challenges faced contribute to the formation of art.
Moreover, the imagery of a steadfast circle amidst a vast space highlights the persistent nature of artistic endeavor. Rather than moving in a conventional cyclical fashion, it suggests a unique, unwavering path that acknowledges a consistent reminder of reality below. This perspective emphasizes the relationship between the artist’s inner world and their creative output, where one’s trials become a fundamental part of their artistry.
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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!
