In this stream-of-consciousness dramatic monologue by Samuel Becket, an elderly man released from an institution against his wishes desperately tries to survive despite declining physical and mental health. He was given clothes and money, but his physical appearance made it hard to find accommodation. When he finally did find a room, he was cheated out of the money. Reduced to begging on the streets and living in squalor among rats and toads, he finally loses the will to go on. Themes include the plight of those who look “different” (rejection, alienation, indignity), resilience, mortality, the emptiness and futility of life.
The End Text / PDF / Audio (8,750 words)