Possibly, some cynic, at once merry and bitter, had....

“ Possibly, some cynic, at once merry and bitter, had desired to signify, in this pantomimic scene, that we mortals, whatever our business or amusement--however serious, however trifling--all dance to one identical tune, and, in spite of our ridiculous activity, bring nothing finally to pass. ”

Nathaniel Hawthorne

From : The House of the Seven Gables