The Fault In Our Stars Oblivion Quote
Introduction
"Some infinities are bigger than other infinities." This is just one of the many memorable quotes from John Green's best-selling novel, The Fault in Our Stars. But among all the lines in the book, there's one that stands out and has become a favorite among fans – the Oblivion Quote. In this article, we'll dive deeper into the meaning of this quote and how it relates to the themes of the book.
The Context
The Oblivion Quote appears in Chapter 21 of the book. The main character, Hazel Grace Lancaster, is talking to her love interest, Augustus Waters, about the inevitable end of their lives. Augustus tells Hazel that he fears oblivion, the idea of being forgotten after death. Hazel responds with the following:
"I believe we have a choice in this world about how to tell sad stories. On the one hand, you can sugarcoat it—the way they do in movies and romance novels where beautiful people learn beautiful lessons, where nothing is too messed up that can't be fixed with an apology and a Peter Gabriel song. I like that version as much as the next girl does, believe me. It's just not the truth. This is the truth. Sorry."
"The truth?"
"Yes."
"What is it?"
"I'm okay with being a metaphorical cigarette butt."
"What?"
"The way Gus died. That's okay. But Gus, my love, I cannot tell you how thankful I am for our little infinity. I wouldn't trade it for the world. You gave me a forever within the numbered days, and I'm grateful."
I'm not talking about our usual philosophical arguments here. I'm talking about something else. I'm talking about oblivion."
"What's oblivion?" he asked.
"Oh, I believe in that, too."
"What is it?"
"It's when you die, and everyone else goes on living, and all your belongings and your house and your car, they all stay exactly where they are, but you're gone. And the people who loved you and were close to you, they move on, and you're just gone. You can never make new old friends. They don't replace you. They just move on. But it's not just that, it's not just not being able to make new old friends, it's not being able to have any friends. That's the worst part, I think. No one will sit next to me at lunch, or go to the mall with me, or watch movies with me, or laugh with me. And I won't have any new friends, not like you guys anyway. And I won't have a boyfriend."
The Meaning
The Oblivion Quote speaks to the fear of being forgotten after death. It's a common fear that many people have, and one that Hazel and Augustus grapple with throughout the book. Hazel recognizes that oblivion is something that will happen to all of us, but she chooses to focus on the present and the connections she has with the people she loves.
The quote also touches on the idea of the finite nature of life. Hazel and Augustus both have terminal illnesses, and they know that their time together is limited. But even though their time is short, they choose to make the most of it and create memories that will last forever – their "little infinity."
Ultimately, the Oblivion Quote is a reminder of the importance of cherishing the time we have with the people we love. Death may be inevitable, but we have the power to make the most of the time we have and create meaningful connections that will last beyond our lifetimes.
The Impact
The Fault in Our Stars has had a profound impact on readers since its release in 2012. The book has been translated into over 50 languages and has sold millions of copies worldwide. The story has resonated with readers of all ages, touching on themes of love, loss, and the human condition.
The Oblivion Quote, in particular, has become a favorite among fans of the book. It has been shared on social media, turned into artwork, and even tattooed onto skin. The quote has taken on a life of its own, inspiring people to live in the moment and cherish the people they love.
Conclusion
The Fault in Our Stars Oblivion Quote is a powerful reminder of the finite nature of life and the importance of cherishing the time we have with the people we love. Hazel and Augustus may be fictional characters, but their story has touched the hearts of millions of readers around the world. So the next time you're faced with the fear of oblivion, remember Hazel's words and focus on the present moment.