The Saddest Last Words in History: Exploring the Search for Hopelessness

There is nothing more heartbreaking than the last words of someone in their final moments. It matters not who they are or what their life story was — when their last words are uttered, they become a part of history, declaring a point of resignation in their final hours. From Marie Antoinette’s “Pardon me, sir” to Robert Coppola’s “I just don’t want to be a liability”, the last words of the famous and infamous are often some of the most poignant in all of history. Throughout the centuries, these utterances have been recorded and remembered, sometimes as a tribute to the person themselves and sometimes as a way to learn or reflect on the state of the human condition. When it comes to the saddest last words ever spoken, there are many contenders. Here are some of the most heart-wrenching examples:

1. “May always the right prevail” — Abraham Lincoln

The 16th President of the United States was assassinated in April of 1865. It is said that his last words before being shot were “May always the right prevail”. These simple words have endured as a reminder that sometimes things can seem so dire that even a good man is forced to speak of hope.

2. “Smells like roses” — Mozart

The world-famous composer died on December 5th, 1791. It is said that his last words were “Smells like roses”, in response to the smell of the flowers placed on the table in his hospital room. It could have been interpreted as words of jest, a reminder to listeners of the joy of life. Yet, his death was certainly no laughing matter; he was only 35 and likely experienced a great amount of pain and distress in his last days.

3. “Don’t let my pot boil over” — Katherine of Aragon

Katherine of Aragon was the first wife of King Henry VIII. She died on January 7th, 1536. It is said that her last words were an injunction to her attendants that they should not let her pot of soup boil over. This may be interpreted as a sign that she was still focused on her duties, even as her life was coming to an end.

4. “I worry about the future of my children” — Nelson Mandela

The freedom-fighter and former South African President, who famously fought against racism, died on December 5th, 2013. Before he passed away, he voiced his concern for his children. He was worried even during his last moments about what the future might bring — a touching gesture that shows how devoted he was to those he loved.

5. “Let my body be released” — Anne Boleyn

Anne Boleyn was King Henry VIII’s second wife and faced a cruel, public execution. Before she was put to death, she is said to have uttered the words “Let my body be released,” as a plea for mercy. This request was ultimately denied and she went to her death. These are only a few examples of the saddest last words in history. It is both a humbling and inspiring reminder of the profound effect our words can have, and how even in the most desperate situations, hope and courage can still be found. For those who want to get a deeper understanding of the last words of the famous and infamous, I suggest checking out the book The Saddest Last Words: Exploring the Search for Hopelessness — a collection of the most heartbreaking last words written or spoken by people throughout history. You’ll be glad you did.