"Perhaps God will have pity on us in the end."

This whole book is based on one specific question. Everything that happens or anything that is said bring us back to Voltaire's question, "why do bad things happen to good people?" Through out this whole novel, no good has ever come to those who have been a part of Candide's life. Some of these peoples life end in death, others repeat a cycle of misery.

Cacambo, Candide's slave through out a couple of his journeys, is a perfect example for this question. As far as we know he hasn't commit any crimes, he hasn't hurt anybody, it's almost like he's just one innocent human being. He has done so much for Candide. When he killed his brother-in-law, Cacambo was there to save him. He was the one who helped him escape without having to take the responsibility for anything. You'd think that some good karma would come his way, seeing as he is practically a hero, but no. Instead nature took its toll and led them to almost be toasted alive. 

Cacambo saves both of their lives by giving a inspiring speech. When finally making their way to the new world Cacambo states, "Perhaps God will have pity on us in the end." (page 73) This quote clearly shows how little hope they have for life. So many horrible things had happened to them, and none of them deserved any of it. That little hope that they have left is gone to the highest of powers to feel sorry for them, to bring something good in exchange for all the bad.  Out of the four elements of satire the one that really defines this moment is absurd. Like mention in previous blog posts, this book clearly has nothing to do with optimism. This quote represents the exact opposite. The characters of this book have such low opinions on life that in order for anything good to happen, they need pity. There's nothing optimistic going on in these peoples lives, even less in their thoughts.