The characters in “Endgame” have different relational dynamics, which are fairly self-evident, although still complicated and eccentric. The play is hugely structured to portray the relationships as crucial to human companionship and the extent to which the character can display their limits of empathy and consideration.
When starting to read the piece, it appears that the characters are isolated in their realms because there are rare interactions and conversations with no meaningful connection. For instance, Nell and Nagg stay in secluded trash cans insinuating that they are isolated despite being married. However, it becomes evident that there is a dependency network between Hamm and Clov.
Hamm depends on his caretaker named, Clov, for assistance through sickness. Clov sticks with Hamm and decides whether to leave or not. The relationship between the two main characters is tested severally in the play; however, the reasons for Clov to stay in this affiliation include the fear of the unknown, his compassion for Hamm, and his fear of isolation and change.
Hamm and Clov display an interdependent relationship where compassion is involved. The actions by Clov prove that leaving Hamm for a different destination is unlikely. When Hamm asks Clov to kill him, the latter dismisses the request by stating that he could not finish him. It is insinuated that Hamm helped Clov with the bare necessities to survive; hence the relationship is not based on empathy.
Clov threatens to leave at some point, but it is suggested that there is no comfortable place elsewhere because he is dependent on Hamm. Clov demonstrates empathy, pity, and care for Hamm, making it difficult to disappear. He obeys Hamm’s orders and perseveres challenges as both continue to live together.
Clov stays with Ham because the two are afraid to be lonely. Even though both characters insist otherwise, they fear being left alone. Hamm claims that he wants to die but still hesitates to ensure his death happens. He does everything to ensure Clov does not go.
He insists that Clov returns him to the room center, indicating his belief that life is cyclical. Hamm keeps telling Clov to stay away but still pulls him back when he attempts to leave. The two characters wonder why they can be separated and engage in a monologue that provides reasons for their situation. Both are unwilling to keep separate despite experiencing challenges and misunderstandings in their interactions due to fear of loneliness and emptiness.
At some point, Hamm threatens that he will be giving Clov only one biscuit a day to ensure he remains hungry and alive. The threat shows a lack of genuine empathy for Clov and helps the reader understand the power dynamics in this relationship. Hamm is the powerful or merciless master, while Clov seems to be the servant. Despite having power and control in this relationship, Hamm cannot dictate everything, which gives some power to Clov, extending his hopes of survival.
Clov is reluctant to halt the company of Hamm due to the fear of the unknown. He is not ready to face new challenges or take a step whose results are not guaranteed or determined. There is no certainty that Clov will be successful when he starts life all over again. Additionally, he is not sure whether Hamm will be safe if left alone.
Any issue that cannot be predicted heightens the stress levels, discomfort, and confusion. Both Hamm and Clov are stuck in a cyclical routine of events that they prefer because they do not know what may happen to them if they stay separate from each other. The belief that life is cyclical makes it challenging to face the pain and uncertainties associated with keeping separate ways.
The relationship between Hamm and Clov helps me understand why Nell and Nagg have stayed separate ways. Nagg and Nell are different from Hamm and Clov because the fear of being lonely does not haunt them, and they choose to face change by accepting to leave separately. By staying separate, they avoid the challenge of having to persevere in toxic relationships like the one experienced by Cloy and Hamm.
Clov is too old and fears change; hence leaving would be risky. Life with Hamm has not been the best; however, there is no hope that leaving will be the best idea. Clov is afraid that life will be meaningless. The other two characters, Nell and Nagg, have accepted that they can stay separate, making their lives better. In the case of Clov and Hamm, their interdependence is highly emotional to the point of not wanting to stay away from each other.
The relationship between Hamm and Clov has different challenges, but the latter ensures the difficulties throughout the play. The two engage in disagreements at some point, but none of them is willing to let the other leave. The reasons that make Clov avoid leaving include the need to stay close to Hamm, the fear of loneliness, the fear of uncertainties, compassion for Hamm, and the fear of facing change.