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Around the world Quote by David James Duncan

“I wish there really was such a thing as a Time-Clock Puncher, though. I wish some gigantic, surly, stone-fisted Soap Mahoney-type guy went around the world smashing every clock in sight till there weren't any more and people got so confused about when to go to the mill or school or church that…” quote by David James Duncan
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“I wish there really was such a thing as a Time-Clock Puncher, though. I wish some gigantic, surly, stone-fisted Soap Mahoney-type guy went around the world smashing every clock in sight till there weren't any more and people got so confused about when to go to the mill or school or church that they gave up and did something interesting instead.”

David James Duncan

About This Quote

Source Novel: The River Why, David James Duncan, 1983

A desire for a chaotic force to disrupt timekeeping reflects a yearning to escape routine and discover authentic experiences.

In simple terms: Break the clock, find freedom.

Key Takeaway

Seek spontaneity over rigid schedules.

Themes

freedom rebellion time creativity

Mood

contemplative critical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • work life
  • education
  • religious schedules
  • personal projects

Key Concepts

anti‑routine existential yearning social critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does routine shape your life?
  • What would you do if schedules vanished?
A Different Perspective

Breaking time may cause chaos, not all change is positive.

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