A person's last words – their final articulated words stated as death approaches – are often recorded because of the decedent's fame, but sometimes because of interest in the statement itself. Last words may be recorded accurately, or, for a variety of reasons, may not. Reasons for wrongly reported last words range from simple error, inarticulate speech, or deliberate intent. Even if reported wrongly, putative last words can constitute an important part of the perceived historical records, or demonstration of cultural attitudes toward death at the time.
Charles Darwin, for example, was reported to have disavowed his theory of evolution in favor of traditional religious faith at his death. This widely disseminated report served the interests of those who opposed Darwin's theory on religious grounds. However, the putative witness had not been at Darwin's deathbed or seen him at any time near the end of his life.
Both Eastern and Western cultural traditions ascribe special significance to words uttered at or near death, but the form and content of reported last words may depend on cultural context.
Famous last words - recorded rightly, or wrongly - are significant to helping you find this cache.
- Of course I know who you are. You're my girl. I love you.
- Surprise me.
- A dying man can do nothing easy.
- I hope the exit is joyful and hope never to return.
- Goodbye Kid. Hurry back.
- Pardonnez-moi, monsieur.
- Dammit! Don't you dare ask God to help me!
- She won’t think anything about it. (First name)
- Don’t let it end like this. Tell them I said something.
- How are we going to get to the moon if we can't talk between two or three buildings?
- I'm finished. I don't even trust myself.
- Go on, get out. Last words are for fools who haven't said enough.
- Leave the shower curtain on the inside of the tub.
- I’d like to thank the Academy for my lifetime achievement award that I will eventually get. (First Name)
- Why are you dodging like this? They couldn't hit an elephant at this distance.