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So they bring our poor Andreas into the vestry, and…

“So they bring our poor Andreas into the vestry, and unfortunately he's no longer capable of speech, all he can do is reach for the left inside pocket of his jacket where he has the money he owes the little creditress, and he says: 'Miss Thérèse!' - and he sighs once, and he dies. May God grant us…” quote by Joseph Roth
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““So they bring our poor Andreas into the vestry, and unfortunately he's no longer capable of speech, all he can do is reach for the left inside pocket of his jacket where he has the money he owes the little creditress, and he says: 'Miss Thérèse!' - and he sighs once, and he dies. May God grant us all, all of us drinkers, such a good and easy death!””

Joseph Roth

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A dying man, unable to speak, clutches his owed money and calls out, wishing a peaceful death for all drinkers, highlighting the yearning for a gentle end despite life's burdens.

In simple terms: A dying man wishes a simple, easy death, reflecting on life's hardships.

Key Takeaway

Seek peace and humility in life's final moments.

Themes

mortality humility compassion human suffering

Mood

somber thoughtful

Type

philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • end‑of‑life care
  • financial debt
  • social marginalization
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

existential reflection social critique spiritual yearning

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does a “good death” mean to you?
  • How can society ease the burdens of the vulnerable?
A Different Perspective

May overlook the complexity of societal factors influencing death wishes.

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