Alfalfa Quote by Philip K. Dick
““The first thing they do to you when you go into New-Path," Charles Freck said, "is they cut off your pecker. As an object lesson. And then they fan out in all directions from there." "Your spleen next," Barris said. "They what, they cut -- What does that do, a spleen?" "Helps you digest your food." "How?" "By removing the cellulose from it." "Then I guess after that --" "Just noncellulose foods. No leaves or alfalfa." "How long can you live that way?" Barris said, "It depends on your attitude." "How many spleens does the average person have?" He knew there usually were two kidneys. "Depends on his weight and age." "Why?" Charles Freck felt keen suspicion. "A person grows more spleens over the years. By the time he's eighty --" "You're shitting me.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: VALIS by Philip K. Dick, 1981
A satirical dialogue mocks bureaucratic control and absurd medical experiments, highlighting how authority can manipulate bodies and minds under the guise of science.
In simple terms: Authority uses absurdity to control people.
Key Takeaway
Question authority and seek truth.
Themes
satire
control
absurdity
Mood
cynical
ironic
critical
Type
philosophical
satirical
When to use this quote
- institutional oppression
- medical ethics
- personal autonomy
Key Concepts
authoritarianism
body autonomy
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What does the “spleen” symbolize?
- How do we recognize absurd authority?
A Different Perspective
The humor may obscure the seriousness of real oppression.
