How we cite our quotes: (Record.Paragraph)
Quote #1
"I must repeat, I have made it my duty to write concealing nothing." (6.1)
D-503 emphasizes his commitment to honesty and clarity, suggesting that he abhors deceit. And yet as the book goes on, he practices it more and more often in the name of hiding his changing identity. Is the author suggesting that D-503's claims to clarity are deceitful, or at least self-deceiving?
Quote #2
"'I have a physician in the Medical Bureau; he is registered to me; if I ask him, he will give you a certificate declaring that you are ill." (6.56)
This is the first presentation of a lie as a way to get around the dictates of the State. The lie is therefore a weapon to be used against the State. Freaky stuff!
Quote #3
"Yes, you are right, I am sick," I said with joy (that seems to me an inexplicable contradiction; there was nothing to be joyful about). (7.33)
Many times in the book, what appears to be deceit is actually the paradoxical division of D-503 into two warring mental halves. It's a sutble distinction, but an important one.