Skip to content

Hurts Quote by Samuel R. Delaney

“I am mad again, he thought. Tears brimmed. He swallowed in a tightened throat. I don't want to be. I'm tired, I'm tired and horny, I'm so tired I can't make sense out of any of it and my mind won't work right half the time I try. I'm thirsty. My head's all filled with kapok coffee wouldn't clear…” quote by Samuel R. Delaney
Download Open image
““I am mad again, he thought. Tears brimmed. He swallowed in a tightened throat. I don't want to be. I'm tired, I'm tired and horny, I'm so tired I can't make sense out of any of it and my mind won't work right half the time I try. I'm thirsty. My head's all filled with kapok coffee wouldn't clear. Still, I wish I had some. Where am I going, what am I doing, stumbling in this smoking graveyard? It's not the pain; only that the pain keeps going on. He tried to let all his muscles go and stepped aimlessly from sidewalk to gutter, his mouth dryer and dryer and dryer. Well, he thought, if it hurts, it hurts. It's only pain.””

Samuel R. Delaney

About This Quote

Source Short Story: “The Pain of Being,” 1975

He experiences overwhelming physical and mental fatigue, describing persistent pain and existential exhaustion.

In simple terms: He is exhausted, in pain, and confused.

Key Takeaway

Recognize limits and seek help when overwhelmed.

Themes

fatigue pain existential crisis

Mood

despair introspective

Type

clinical emotional

When to use this quote

  • mental health care
  • medical evaluation
  • stress management

Key Concepts

psychology healthcare

Questions to Reflect On

  • What self‑care practices can alleviate this exhaustion?
  • When should you seek professional help?
A Different Perspective

Ignoring pain can worsen health.

4.6 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by Samuel R. Delaney

Explore all 3 Samuel R. Delaney quotes

More Hurts quotes

Browse all 2,915 Hurts quotes