Scott Martin

“One of the most striking consequences of the closing of the gates was, in fact, this sudden deprivation befalling people who were completely unprepared for it.”
― Albert Camus, The Plague

“When a war breaks out, people say: "It's too stupid; it can't last long." But though a war may well be "too stupid," that doesn't prevent its lasting. Stupidity has a knack of getting its way; as we should see if we were not always so much wrapped up in ourselves.”
― Albert Camus, The Plague

“Under other circumstances our townsfolk would probably have found an outlet in increased activity, a more sociable life. But the plague forced inactivity on them, limiting their movements to the same dull round inside the town, and throwing them, day after day, on the illusive solace of their memories.”
― Albert Camus, The Plague

“You hear them saying,’ he told me, ‘ “After the plague I’ll do this or that.” … They’re eating their hearts out instead of staying put. And they don’t even realize their privileges. Take my case: could I say “After my arrest I’ll do this or that”? Arrest’s a beginning, not an end. Whereas plague.… Do you know what I think? They’re fretting simply because they won’t let themselves go. And I know what I’m talking about.”
― Albert Camus, The Plague