How we cite our quotes: (Act.Line) Every time a character talks counts as one line, even if what they say turns into a long monologue.
Quote #1
VLADIMIR
Our Saviour. Two thieves. One is supposed to have been saved and the other . . . (he searches for the contrary of saved) . . . damned. (1.64)
Much of the uncertainty in Waiting for Godot is the result of a world in which results are arbitrary. The motif of the 50/50 chance starts here, with the discussion of two thieves, one saved and the other damned for no discernible, discriminating reasons.
Quote #2
VLADIMIR
But all four were there. And only one speaks of a thief being saved. Why believe him rather than the others? (1.86)
Vladimir makes that point that even things that many consider to be true are subject to doubt. Beliefs are without rationale in the world of Waiting for Godot.
Quote #3
VLADIMIR
We're waiting for Godot.
ESTRAGON
(despairingly) Ah! (Pause.) You're sure it was here?
VLADIMIR
What?
ESTRAGON
That we were to wait.
VLADIMIR
He said by the tree. (They look at the tree.) Do you see any others?
[…]
ESTRAGON
Looks to me more like a bush.
VLADIMIR
A shrub.
ESTRAGON
A bush.
VLADIMIR
A—. What are you insinuating? That we've come to the wrong place? (1.94-109)
The torturous nature of this endless wait for Godot derives from the uncertainty surrounding the act. If Vladimir and Estragon can’t be certain as to the right location, the central action of their daily lives (the waiting) may be moot.