How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Act.Line). Every time a character talks counts as one line, even if what they say turns into a long monologue. We used William Archer's translation.
Quote #7
OSWALD. I have never led a dissipated life never, in any respect. You mustn't believe that of me, mother! I've never done that. (2.250)
Oswald is usually so independent and strong-willed. Why does he want to assure his mother of his innocence? Is it going to help him get what he wants from her?
Quote #8
OSWALD. [After a while, looks up and remains resting upon his elbow.] If it had only been something inherited – something one wasn't responsible for! But this! To have thrown away so shamefully, thoughtlessly, recklessly, one's own happiness, one's own health, everything in the world – one's future, one's very life – (2.280)
Almost more than the illness, Oswald is tortured by guilt and regret, believing as he does that he brought it on himself. While he defends the artist's way of life, he believes he is too weak to take part in it.
Quote #9
OSWALD. [Wanders restlessly about.] But it's all the torment, the gnawing remorse – and then, the great, killing dread. Oh – that awful dread! (2.334)
Oswald is caught between the past and the future. On the one hand, he's filled with second thoughts about the way he's lived. On the other, he sees certain death in his future, after a potentially long, humiliating decline.