Tarot Quote by David Foster Wallace
““God and Satan play poker with Tarot cards for the soul of an alcoholic sandwich-bag salesman obsessed with Bernini’s ‘The Ecstasy of St. Teresa.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Infinite Jest, 1996
God and Satan gamble over a soul, using Tarot as a metaphor for chaotic human struggles.
In simple terms: Spiritual conflict is framed as a game of chance.
Key Takeaway
Recognize life’s absurd battles.
Themes
spirituality
absurdity
conflict
Mood
ironic
thought‑provoking
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- addiction
- art criticism
- philosophical debate
Key Concepts
existential gamble
cultural symbolism
Questions to Reflect On
- What does the poker metaphor reveal about free will?
- How does humor affect perception of tragedy?
A Different Perspective
The metaphor may trivialize deep suffering.
