How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Part.Chapter.Paragraph). We used Matthew Ward's translation, published by Vintage International published in 1989.
Quote #4
The residents usually weren’t allowed to attend funerals. He only let them keep the vigil. "It’s more human that way," he remarked. (1.1.21)
The sadness of others is such an overpowering feeling that the caretaker has to take measures to control it. This, of course, contrasts to Meursault’s total lack of emotion.
Quote #5
I told her Maman had died. She wanted to know how long ago, so I said, "Yesterday." She gave a little start but didn’t say anything. I felt like telling her it wasn’t my fault, but I stopped myself because I remembered that I’d already said that to my boss. It didn’t mean anything. Besides, you always feel a little guilty. (1.2.2)
Rather than feeling sadness over his mother’s death, Meursault feels guilt. In the beginning of the novel, Meursault has some semblance of a societal conscience.