Con Man Quote by Tom Robbins
““So, even for those of us who can't personally witness Salome's dance, the fifth veil surely will fall. It will fall at the moment of our death. As we lie there, helpless, beyond distraction, electricity stealing out of our brains like a con man stealing out of a sucker's neighborhood, it will occur to many of us that everything we ever did, we did for money. And at that instant, right before the stars blink off, we will, according to what else we may have learned in life, burn with an unendurable regret--or have us a good silent laugh at our own expense.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Still Life with Woodpecker by Tom Robbins, 1980
The quote reflects on mortality, realizing that at death we may regret chasing money, but can also find humor in our own folly.
In simple terms: At death we may regret greed or laugh at ourselves.
Key Takeaway
Recognize what truly matters before it's too late.
Themes
mortality
regret
humor
materialism
reflection
Mood
contemplative
bittersweet
wry
Type
philosophical
darkly humorous
reflective
When to use this quote
- career decisions
- financial planning
- end‑of‑life reflections
- personal values
Key Concepts
existentialism
wealth
selfawareness
Questions to Reflect On
- What would you change if you knew death was imminent?
- Can humor soften the fear of mortality?
A Different Perspective
Some may argue that not everyone feels regret at death, or that humor may be inappropriate.
