Albert Camus, The Plague

Rieux: Since the order of the world is shaped by death, mightn’t it be better for God if we refuse to believe in Him and struggle with all our might against death, without raising our eyes toward the heaven where He sits in silence.
Tarrou: Yes. But your victories will never be lasting; that’s all.
Rieux: Yes, I know that. But it’s no reason for giving up the struggle.
Tarrou: No reason, I agree. Only, I now can picture what this plague must mean for you.
Rieux: Yes. A never ending defeat.
Tarrou: Who taught you all this, doctor?
Rieux: Suffering.