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He speaks of himself as of another. Himself he devises too…

“He speaks of himself as of another. Himself he devises too for company. Leave it at that. Confusion too is company up to a point. Better hope deferred than none. Up to a point. Till the heart starts to sicken. Company too up to a point. Better a sick heart than none. Till it starts to break. So…” quote by Samuel Beckett
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““He speaks of himself as of another. Himself he devises too for company. Leave it at that. Confusion too is company up to a point. Better hope deferred than none. Up to a point. Till the heart starts to sicken. Company too up to a point. Better a sick heart than none. Till it starts to break. So speaking of himself he concludes for the time being, For the time being leave it at that.””

Samuel Beckett

About This Quote

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

The speaker reflects on isolation and the limits of companionship, suggesting that even minimal company can become burdensome, and that hope deferred is preferable to none.

In simple terms: Isolation feels burdensome; limited company can become oppressive.

Key Takeaway

Accept solitude when needed.

Themes

isolation companionship hope mental health

Mood

melancholic contemplative

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • loneliness
  • mental health coping
  • personal reflection
  • relationship boundaries

Key Concepts

existentialism psychology human condition

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance need for company with personal well-being?
  • When is solitude beneficial?
A Different Perspective

Too much reliance on others can hinder personal growth.

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