Hunger

by Knut Hamsun

The instant I opened my eyes I began, from sheer force of habit, to think if I had anything to rejoice over that day.

God knows, thought I, if looking for employment will ever again avail me aught. The frequent re pulses, half-promises, and curt noes, the cherished, deluded hopes, and fresh endeavours that always resulted in nothing had done my courage to death.

Just wait until I could get my foot on the ladder, I would be beholden to no man, not even for a blanket.