“They have had their moment of freedom. Webley has only been a guest star. Now it’s back to the cages and the rationalized forms of death—death in the service of the one species cursed with the knowledge that it will die…. “I would set you free, if I knew how. But it isn’t free out here. All the animals, the plants, the minerals, even other kinds of men, are being broken and reassembled every day, to preserve an elite few, who are the loudest to theorize on freedom, but the least free of all. I can’t even give you hope that it will be different someday—that They’ll come out, and forget death, and lose Their technology’s elaborate terror, and stop using every form of life without mercy to keep what haunts men down to a tolerable level—and be like you instead, simply here, simply alive…..” The guest star retires down the corridors.”
Quote Analysis:
In this quote from Thomas Pynchon's work, the speaker reflects on the fleeting nature of freedom and the oppressive systems that keep individuals, including animals, plants, and other humans, in cages. The speaker expresses a desire to set others free but acknowledges the complexities and injustices of the world that prevent true freedom. The use of language, such as "broken and reassembled" and "elaborate terror," conveys a sense of despair and hopelessness in the face of systemic oppression and manipulation. This quote highlights the theme of freedom versus captivity and the struggle for genuine autonomy in a world dominated by power and control.
Modern Relevance
The passage above, from Thomas Pynchon's work, reflects on the themes of freedom, captivity, and the exploitation of nature for the benefit of a privileged few. In today's world, these themes are more relevant than ever as we grapple with issues such as environmental degradation, income inequality, and the ethical implications of technological advancement. The extract serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of humanity's relentless pursuit of progress and power.
Example of Usage
In this passage from Thomas Pynchon's work, the character reflects on the limitations of freedom in a society governed by technology and the exploitation of resources. The idea of freedom is juxtaposed with the harsh reality of life, where only a select few benefit at the expense of others. The imagery of cages and the idea of being "broken and reassembled" paint a vivid picture of the struggles faced by individuals in such a society.
Reflection Questions:
After reading this powerful excerpt from Thomas Pynchon's work, take some time to reflect on the themes and ideas presented. Consider the following questions:
What do you think Pynchon is trying to convey about freedom, captivity, and the human experience through this passage?
How do you interpret the idea of certain individuals being "broken and reassembled" to preserve an elite few? Do you see parallels to real-world dynamics or systems?
In what ways does the passage evoke concepts of power, control, and the manipulation of life for the benefit of a select group?
How does the imagery of cages, rationalized forms of death, and technology's terror resonate with you in today's society?
What are your thoughts on the notion of hope for a different, more equitable future, as expressed in the passage?
How does the image of the guest star retiring down the corridors leave you feeling or thinking about the larger themes at play in the text?
Similar quotes
“All the animals, the plants, the minerals, even other kinds of men, are being broken and reassembled every day, to preserve an elite few, who are the loudest to theorize on freedom, but the least free of all.”
“I’ve stripped my life down,” he told me. “I don’t need much. I have all the company I want to keep right in here.” He shot himself in the head with his fingers. “People don’t understand about the need to live simply. They make appointments all day. They even schedule their own deaths. The first time they’ll have freedom to really be themselves is when they no longer exist. But up here, there’s nothing but me and the sky. A million billion stars.”
“I am truly free only when all human beings, men and women, are equally free. The freedom of other men, far from negating or limiting my freedom, is, on the contrary, its necessary premise and confirmation.”
“Most people would look at an animal in a cage and instinctively feel that it should be set free. . . . It's a dangerous world out there, filled with predators. . . . What would you prefer? A comfortable, safe, warm, cosy life in a cage, or an uncertain life of freedom.”
“Running was the way he dreamed. Having never been in control of his life, his idea of freedom was simply to break free. He dreamed of being at the mercy of the wind, carried aloft and blown here and there, a life of true randomness instead of always being part of someone else's purpose.”