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There was an old military saying that Fred Colon used to…

“There was an old military saying that Fred Colon used to describe total bewilderment and confusion. An individual in that state, according to Fred, ‘couldn’t tell if it was arsehole or breakfast time.’ This had always puzzled Vimes. He wondered what research had been done. Even now, with his mouth…” quote by Terry Pratchett
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““There was an old military saying that Fred Colon used to describe total bewilderment and confusion. An individual in that state, according to Fred, ‘couldn’t tell if it was arsehole or breakfast time.’ This had always puzzled Vimes. He wondered what research had been done. Even now, with his mouth tasting of warmed-over yesterday and everything curiously sharp in his vision, he thought he’d be able to tell the difference. Only one was likely to include a cup of coffee, for a start.””

Terry Pratchett

About This Quote

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

A character describes extreme confusion as being unable to distinguish between absurdity and normal routine, highlighting the disorienting effects of fatigue and chaos.

In simple terms: Extreme confusion makes ordinary things indistinguishable.

Key Takeaway

Recognize when fatigue clouds judgment.

Themes

confusion fatigue humor

Mood

tired bemused

Type

humorous observational

When to use this quote

  • late-night work
  • stressful meetings
  • exhausted decision‑making
  • disorienting travel

Key Concepts

cognitive overload absurdity perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does fatigue affect your perception of reality?
  • What simple habit can restore clarity?
A Different Perspective

Even in confusion, some clues (like coffee) can help regain clarity.

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