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Addict Quote by William S. Burroughs

“I feel that opiates - I include opium and all its derivatives, such as morphine, heroin, pantopon, etc. - are quite useless for any sort of creative work, useful though they may be for routine work. Much of the hard physical work in the Far East is done by opium addicts.” quote by William S. Burroughs
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“I feel that opiates - I include opium and all its derivatives, such as morphine, heroin, pantopon, etc. - are quite useless for any sort of creative work, useful though they may be for routine work. Much of the hard physical work in the Far East is done by opium addicts.”

William S. Burroughs

About This Quote

Source Essay: "The Addict in the World", 1971

Opioids hinder creativity, serving only routine tasks, while many physical laborers in the Far East are addicted.

In simple terms: Opioids impair creative work.

Key Takeaway

Avoid opiates for creative pursuits.

Themes

substance use creativity labor addiction

Mood

critical analytical

Type

social philosophical

When to use this quote

  • creative industries
  • public health policy
  • labor rights

Key Concepts

Neurochemistry of creativity social impact of drugs workplace health

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do substances affect artistic output?
  • What alternatives support routine work without addiction?
A Different Perspective

Creative fields may still rely on stimulants.

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