“Try again. Fail again. Fail better.” – Samuel Beckett
This iconic quote from Worstward Ho (1983) by Irish writer and playwright Samuel Beckett captures the essence of resilience in the face of inevitable failure. Featured in Criminal Minds Season 1, Episode 1, the phrase resonates deeply with those who admire Beckett’s profound exploration of human perseverance and the absurdity of existence.
Table of Contents
About Samuel Beckett
- Born: April 13, 1906, in Dublin, Ireland
- Died: December 22, 1989, in Paris, France
- Career Highlights:
- A prominent figure in the Theatre of the Absurd, Beckett’s works often depict bleak landscapes, existential despair, and dark humor.
- Known for groundbreaking plays like Waiting for Godot (1953), Endgame (1957), and Krapp’s Last Tape (1958).
- Received the Nobel Prize in Literature (1969) for his innovative exploration of the human condition.
- Beckett’s minimalist style and focus on existential themes made him one of the most influential writers of the 20th century.
- Find more about Samuel Beckett on the SamuelBeckettSociety.org
The Origin of Samuel Beckett’s Quote
The phrase appears in Worstward Ho, a late-career prose piece that epitomizes Beckett’s minimalist and reductionist approach. The title itself—a play on “Westward Ho”—implies a journey not toward improvement, but toward confronting life’s inherent challenges head-on.
This work explores the futility of human effort while suggesting that persistence, even in the face of failure, holds value. The quote exemplifies Beckett’s view that failure is not a dead end, but a necessary part of striving and growth.
What Does “Try Again. Fail Again. Fail Better.” Mean?
- Embrace Failure
Beckett suggests that failure is unavoidable, yet it should not discourage us. Instead, he encourages us to face it, accept it, and try again. - Continuous Improvement
The idea of “failing better” implies progress through each failure. While perfection may be unattainable, each attempt brings refinement and deeper understanding. - Finding Meaning in the Absurd
True to Beckett’s existentialist roots, the quote reframes failure as a meaningful part of the human struggle, not something to be feared or avoided.
The Philosophical Context
- Existentialism and the Absurd:
Beckett’s philosophy aligns with thinkers like Albert Camus and Jean-Paul Sartre, who explored the absurdity of human existence and the necessity of finding purpose within it. - Stoic Acceptance:
Beckett encourages resilience and acceptance of life’s imperfections, reflecting a stoic mindset in the face of adversity.
Why Was It Said?
Beckett’s fascination with failure stems from his broader exploration of the human condition. For him:
- Failure is inevitable, but it is also essential for growth.
- The struggle itself is where meaning is found—not in success, but in persistence and refinement.
This philosophy is woven into Worstward Ho, where Beckett delves into the futility of human effort while celebrating the resilience to keep trying.
Cultural Impact of Samuel Beckett’s Quote
- In Literature and the Arts
A mantra for writers, artists, and creators facing rejection and creative blocks.
Encourages perseverance, reminding creatives that every setback is part of the process. - In Business and Entrepreneurship
Adopted as a motivational slogan in Silicon Valley, particularly in the “fail fast, fail often” mindset.
Reinforces the value of iterative learning and innovation. - In Sports and Personal Growth
Inspires individuals to view failures as stepping stones to personal development and mastery.
Modern Usage
While often used as a motivational phrase, the quote’s deeper meaning reflects Beckett’s more somber worldview. In its original context, the phrase emphasizes human persistence despite the inevitability of failure, a perspective rooted in existentialism and the absurd.
Why It Resonates Today
Beckett’s quote has become a universal reminder that failure is not the opposite of success but a critical part of it. In a world where perfectionism and fear of failure often dominate, his words encourage resilience, humility, and the courage to keep going.
Final Thoughts on Beckett’s Quote
Samuel Beckett’s “Try again. Fail again. Fail better.” is more than just a motivational phrase—it’s a profound reflection on the human spirit. It teaches us that failure is not something to avoid but something to embrace as part of our journey toward growth.
Whether you’re an artist, an entrepreneur, or simply navigating the challenges of everyday life, Beckett’s words remind us to persist, to learn, and to find meaning in the struggle. Because, as he so brilliantly shows, even in failure, there is progress.
