Skip to content

Lying Pool Quote by Neil Gaiman

“Someone stumbled into him, cursed and walked away. Richard was lying prone on the platform, in the rush-hour glare. The side of his face was sticky and cold. He pulled his head up off the ground. He had been lying in a pool of his own vomit. At least, he hoped it was his own.” quote by Neil Gaiman
Download Open image
““Someone stumbled into him, cursed and walked away. Richard was lying prone on the platform, in the rush-hour glare. The side of his face was sticky and cold. He pulled his head up off the ground. He had been lying in a pool of his own vomit. At least, he hoped it was his own.””

Neil Gaiman

About This Quote

Source Short Story: “The Truth Is a Cave” (excerpt), 2015

A man in a desperate, filthy state reflects on his own ruin, hoping his vomit is his own, illustrating self‑deception in crisis.

In simple terms: A desperate man lies in his own mess, hoping it’s his own.

Key Takeaway

Recognize when you’re denying reality.

Themes

despair self‑deception crisis

Mood

somber reflective

Type

narrative literary

When to use this quote

  • public transport
  • personal breakdown
  • addiction
  • homelessness

Key Concepts

existentialism psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What truth are you avoiding?
  • How does self‑deception worsen suffering?
A Different Perspective

Denial can prevent seeking help.

3.5 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by Neil Gaiman

Explore all 2,527 Neil Gaiman quotes

More Lying Pool quotes

Browse all 2 Lying Pool quotes