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But poor old Dim kept looking up at the stars and planets…

“But poor old Dim kept looking up at the stars and planets and the Luna with his rot wide open like a kid who'd never viddied any such thing before, and he said: "What's on them, I wonder. What would be up there on things like that?" I nudged him hard, saying: "Come, gloopy bastard as thou art…” quote by Anthony Burgess
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““But poor old Dim kept looking up at the stars and planets and the Luna with his rot wide open like a kid who'd never viddied any such thing before, and he said: "What's on them, I wonder. What would be up there on things like that?" I nudged him hard, saying: "Come, gloopy bastard as thou art. Think thou not on them. There'll be life like down here most likely, with some getting knifed and others doing the knifing.””

Anthony Burgess

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The passage juxtaposes childlike curiosity about the cosmos with a cynical, violent worldview, highlighting the tension between wonder and brutality.

In simple terms: Curiosity meets cruelty.

Key Takeaway

Balance wonder with empathy.

Themes

curiosity violence existentialism

Mood

dark thoughtful ironic

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • space exploration
  • philosophical discussions
  • creative writing
  • education
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

human nature nihilism cosmic awe

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does curiosity survive in a hostile world?
  • Can empathy temper violent instincts?
A Different Perspective

The quote’s harsh tone may alienate readers seeking optimism.

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