In Lawrence Durrell's novel Clea, a poignant moment is described where individuals observe a two-minute silence, symbolizing collective mourning for a profound human failure. This silence acts as a silent tribute, emphasizing the deep sense of loss and regret that the character perceives in the human condition.

Durrell compares this shared mourning to mourners at an unseen memorial, highlighting the intangible and perhaps forgotten nature of the tragedy. The quote underscores the theme of human vulnerability and the inability to overcome certain setbacks, which feels like an irremediable loss embedded in our existence.