Meursault is aware of his death and finds that he is happy only when he opens himself up to the reality of human existence, the universe's indifference of the world. He is content with his position in society. He doesn't mind being loathed and judged as a criminal. He hopes for companionship, to "feel less alone." He accepts the fact that this companionship is in the form of a plethora of angry spectators. His hope to be greeted with hails of execration is like a spit in society's face. Instead of trying to conform, he goes his own separate way. He now accepts the futility of his life, making him able to enjoy the time before his death fully. From this, Camus believes that in order to enjoy and embrace life, one must first get beyond hope, and the "benign indifference of the world.".
In addition, Camus also infers that if one accepts his death, one will be able to appreciate the decisions he makes because he will not be hindered by death. In jail, Meursualt spends time thinking about his execution. "No, the one thing that counted for me was the possibility of making a dash for it and defeating their bloodthirsty rite; of a mad stampede to freedom that would anyhow give me a moment's hope, the gambler's last throw" (137). Meursault finds himself hoping for some sort of loophole. However, this hope of a loophole seems to torture him. The idea of prolonging his life by another couple of years prevents him from making the most of his final moments. It prevents him from fully coming to grips with his situation. However, if there's a loophole, then you"re not really living your life and not accepting the reality of death. Enraged that the chaplain wants him to believe in God and forgiveness, Meursault becomes enraged and chokes him. "Actually I was sure of myself, sure of my present life and of the death that was coming. That no doubt, was all I had, but at least that certainty was something I could get my teeth into-just as it had got its teeth into me.