But the saddest difference between them was that Zazetsky, as Luria said, 'fought to regain his lost faculties with the indomitable tenacity of the damned,' whereas Dr P. was not fighting, did not know what was lost. But who was more tragic, or who was more damned -- the man who knew it, or the man who did not?

Summary

This quote contemplates the contrasting responses to loss and tragedy. Zazetsky, described by Luria, is depicted as an unwavering fighter who fiercely endeavors to reclaim what he has lost. In contrast, Dr. P. remains ignorant of his own losses and is not engaged in any form of battle. The quote ponders the question of which fate is more tragic or damnable: being aware of one's loss and persistently fighting against it, or being oblivious to the losses altogether. It prompts reflection on the nature and consequences of awareness and ignorance when confronted with adversity.

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