Skip to content

Forty-two!" yelled Loonquawl. "Is that all you've got to…

“Forty-two!" yelled Loonquawl. "Is that all you've got to show for seven and a half million years' work?" "I checked it very thoroughly," said the computer, "and that quite definitely is the answer. I think the problem, to be quite honest with you, is that you've never actually known what the…” quote by Douglas Adams
Download Open image
““Forty-two!" yelled Loonquawl. "Is that all you've got to show for seven and a half million years' work?" "I checked it very thoroughly," said the computer, "and that quite definitely is the answer. I think the problem, to be quite honest with you, is that you've never actually known what the question is.””

Douglas Adams

About This Quote

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

The answer is known but the question remains unknown, highlighting the absurdity of seeking meaning without proper inquiry.

In simple terms: We have answers but lack the right questions.

Key Takeaway

Seek clarity before chasing answers.

Themes

absurdity knowledge inquiry

Mood

playful thoughtful

Type

humorous philosophical

When to use this quote

  • scientific research
  • personal decision making
  • problem solving
  • creative brainstorming

Key Concepts

philosophy humor existentialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What question are you avoiding?
  • How do you define the right problem?
A Different Perspective

Answers without context can mislead.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Douglas Adams

Explore all 1,168 Douglas Adams quotes

More 42 quotes

Browse all 4 42 quotes