:22:01
Death visited me this morning.
:22:04
We are playing chess.
:22:07
This respite enables me
to perform a vital errand.
:22:11
What errand?
:22:13
My whole life has been
a meaningless search.
:22:23
l say it without bitterness
or self-reproach.
:22:28
l know it is the same for all.
:22:33
But l want to use my respite
for one significant action.
:22:41
So you play chess with Death?
:22:45
He is a skillful tactician...
:22:48
but l have not yet lost one piece.
:22:52
How can you outwit Death?
:22:56
By a combination
of bishop and knight...
:23:03
l will break his flank.
:23:07
l shall remember that.
:23:15
Traitor! You have tricked me!
:23:23
But l'll find a way out.
:23:26
We will resume our game
at the inn.
:23:38
This is my hand. l can move it.
:23:43
The blood is pulsing in my veins.
:23:48
The sun is still at the zenith...
:23:53
and l, Antonius Block...
:23:58
am playing chess with Death!