Cries Quote by Samuel Beckett
““I began playing with the cries, a little in the same way as I had played with the song, on, back, on, back, if that may be called playing. As long as I kept walking I didn’t hear them, because of the footsteps. But as soon as I halted again I heard them again, a little fainter each time, admittedly, but what does it matter, faint or loud, cry is cry, all that matters is that it should cease. For years I thought they would cease. Now I don’t think so any more. I could have done with other loves perhaps. But there it is, either you love or you don’t.””
About This Quote
Source Play: Endgame, 1957
He describes hearing cries that fade when moving, but return when stopping, symbolizing persistent suffering that cannot be fully silenced.
In simple terms: Suffering persists despite attempts to ignore it.
Key Takeaway
Accept that some pains endure.
Themes
suffering
existence
human condition
acceptance
loneliness
Mood
melancholic
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- Coping with grief
- mental health therapy
- philosophical reflection
- creative writing
- personal introspection
Key Concepts
Existentialism
absurdity
psychological persistence
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “cry” represent in your life?
- Can acceptance reduce the impact of persistent suffering?
A Different Perspective
The notion that cries may never cease can lead to hopelessness.
![“Perhaps he is crying out for help all this time and I do not hear him! [Pause.] I do of course hear cries. [Pause.] But they are in my head surely. [Pause.] Is it possible that... [Pause. With finality ] No no, my head was always full of cries. [Pause.] Faint confused cries. [Pause.] They come…” quote by Samuel Beckett](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/723/samuel-beckett-365_cries_perhaps-he-is-crying-out-for-help-all-th_663165.jpg)
