n analogy of a heap of sand grains meant to represent the human dilemma. For morality is often about determinations of self that impact others. Clov maintains, ôGrain upon grain, one by one, and one day, suddenly, thereÆs a heap, a little heap, the impossible heapö (Beckett 2). ClovÆs metaphor stands for human society. While we are all individual ôgrainsö of humanity, Clov determines it is impossible, with our individualistic perspectives and values, that we can ever become united as a ôheapö of humanity.
Hamm also provides a discourse on suffering. He wonders if the misery of others can ever be on the same level as his own suffering. As he states, ôOh I am willing to believe they suffer as much as such creatures can suffer. But does that mean their sufferings equal mine?ö (Beckett 2). In short, Hamm is underscoring the dilemma of individual behavior versus collective or communal behavior. In this manner, he is suggesting that our own suffering always takes on greater significance for us than the suffering of others. As such, our moral behavior is determined by its consequences more on us than on others.
Endgame also reveals that despite the separation between individuals, human beings need each other as surely as Hamm needs Clov to push him around the room. Clov attempts to leave but never does. BeckettÆs point seems to be that despite the misery and suffering we inflict each other through our actions (either moral or immoral), we are better off trying to connect with someone than facing an existential existence in complete isolation and solitude. We see this in many exchanges between Clov and Hamm, of which the following is typical:
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