How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Line). Every time a character talks counts as one line, even if what they say turns into a long monologue. We used Donald M. Allen's translation.
Quote #4
Mr. Martin: "Darling, let's forget all that has not passed between us, and, now that we have found each other again, let's try not to lose each other any more, and live as before." (140)
Here you go. Mr. Martin says that they should "live as before." If they do that, won't they just forget each other again? It seems like the Martins may never escape their isolation. The play may be asking its audience whether any of us ever truly escape our own loneliness.
Quote #5
Mr. Smith: "Hm." [Silence.]
Mrs. Smith: "Hm, hm." [Silence.]
Mrs. Martin: "Hm, hm, hm." [Silence.]
Mr. Martin: "Hm, hm, hm, hm." [Silence.] (144-147)
Check out all the silence in this "conversation." There's tons of distance between these characters even though their supposed to be old friends. The silence could indicate that they are really quite isolated from one another. It could be said that, in a way, there's silence between all people.
Quote #6
Fire Chief: [To the Smiths:] "Go on and kiss each other."
Mrs. Smith: "We kissed each other just a little while ago." (290-291)
A kiss is pretty universal symbol of union between two people. The Smiths' reluctance to kiss each other may be another indication that they are truly isolated from each other.