“A standing prick hath no conscience. And if that standing prick is attached to Bruce Robertson then it hath less than no conscience. You can't afford a conscience in this life, that has become a luxury for the rich and a social ball and chain for the rest of us. Even if I wanted one, which I certainly do not, I wouldn't have the faintest idea as how to go about getting one.”
Analysis:
In this quote from Irvine Welsh's novel "Filth," the protagonist Bruce Robertson reflects on the lack of conscience that comes with his promiscuous and self-destructive behavior. The metaphor of the "standing prick" symbolizes his impulsivity and lack of morality, suggesting that his physical desires overshadow any sense of right and wrong. Robertson's cynical attitude towards the idea of having a conscience reveals his jaded view of the world and his own inability to change his ways. This quote highlights the character's inner turmoil and his struggle to find redemption amid his hedonistic lifestyle.
Modern Relevance
In this quote from Irvine Welsh's novel, "Filth", the character Bruce Robertson dismisses the idea of having a conscience in a society where it is seen as a luxury for the wealthy and a burden for the rest. This sentiment reflects a larger societal issue of moral relativism and the prioritization of personal gain over ethical considerations in today's world.
Irvine Welsh on Conscience
"A standing prick hath no conscience. And if that standing prick is attached to Bruce Robertson then it hath less than no conscience. You can't afford a conscience in this life, that has become a luxury for the rich and a social ball and chain for the rest of us. Even if I wanted one, which I certainly do not, I wouldn't have the faintest idea as how to go about getting one." - Irvine Welsh
Reflection Questions:
In this quote from Irvine Welsh's novel, "Filth," the character Bruce Robertson expresses his disdain for the idea of having a conscience. This raises several thought-provoking questions about morality, societal expectations, and personal values. Reflect on the following questions:
- How do you interpret Bruce Robertson's perspective on conscience and its role in society?
- Do you agree or disagree with the notion that having a conscience is a luxury for the rich and a burden for others? Why?
- Can you think of any real-life examples that support or contradict the idea that a conscience is unnecessary in today's world?
- How does the character's declaration that he wouldn't even know how to acquire a conscience challenge your own understanding of morality and ethics?
- Do you believe that having a conscience is a choice, or is it an inherent part of being human? Why or why not?
Similar quotes
“In literature one has the best company in the world at complete command; one also has the worst. One has a social conscience which dissuades one from harbouring unprofitable company in life, and I find that my two canons are a great aid and support for an analogous literary conscience which speaks up against consorting with unprofitable company in literature.”
“I cannot choose but adhere to the word of God, which has possession of my conscience; nor can I possibly, nor will I even make any recantation, since it is neither safe nor honest to act contrary to conscience! Here I stand; I cannot do otherwise, so help me God! Amen.”
“There is one thing alone that stands the brunt of life throughout its course; a quiet conscience.”
“Tolstoy said, 'The antagonism between life and conscience may be removed either by a change of life or by a change of conscience.' Many of us have elected to adjust our consciences rather than our lives. Our powers of rationalization are unlimited. They allow us to live in luxury and indifference while others, whom we could help if we chose to, starve and go to hell.”
“How often have you and I helped to keep sinners easy in their sin, by our inconsistency! Had we been true Christians, the wicked man would often have been pricked to the heart, and his conscience would have convicted him.”