Some thoughts on the meaning behind the meaninglessness in Waiting for Godot

Waiting for Godot is a story characterized by meaninglessness. The characters are engaged in constant meaningless conversations, which could be better described as ramblings. They are always in a state of unending meaningless waiting for someone whose meaning is not given. These meaningless scenes and action provide a powerful picture of the state of meaninglessness the modern 20th century man.

Much like the characters in Waiting For Godot, the modern man often finds himself mingling with dozens of companions, without ever engaging in a meaningful and uplifting conversation. Their lives are characterized, much like the characters in Waiting for Godot but repetitive mundane actions. The joy once found in everyday work has vanished, as the meaning behind it has vanished.

The 20th century man is easily compared to the story of the two waiting companions because both are waiting for someone else to fix their lives for them. They both see there is a problem, but see no way to fix it themselves and thus wait for the perfect person or circumstance that will bring meaning into their lives.

Yet, sadly they are waiting for the wrong thing. They are waiting for something that will never come. One earthly friend, messenger, or situation won’t fix their lives. The only way to find true meaning in ones life is to turn to God; and the 20th century man has forgotten this. He has turned away from true meaning and continues to look for an artificial one that will never come.