Meaning: The quote "Good God, if our civilization were to sober up for a couple of days it'd die of remorse on the third" by Malcolm Lowry is a thought-provoking and evocative statement that reflects the author's disillusionment with the state of modern society. Malcolm Lowry, an English writer best known for his novel "Under the Volcano," was known for his introspective and often bleak outlook on life, which is evident in this quote. The quote suggests that if humanity were to confront the harsh realities and consequences of its actions, it would be overwhelmed by feelings of regret and guilt.

Lowry's use of the phrase "sober up" is particularly striking, as it implies a state of drunkenness or delusion that the civilization is currently in. This can be interpreted as a metaphor for the societal and cultural intoxication that blinds people to the negative impact of their behaviors and choices. The idea that civilization would "die of remorse on the third" further emphasizes the depth of the consequences that would be faced if society were to awaken to its own failings. The phrase "die of remorse" suggests a profound and overwhelming sense of guilt and sorrow, indicating that the truth about the state of civilization would be so devastating that it would lead to a collective emotional collapse.

Lowry's quote can be interpreted in various ways, but one key theme is the idea of societal awakening and the potential for profound regret. It speaks to the notion that many aspects of modern civilization are unsustainable and damaging, and that if people were to truly confront these realities, the resulting remorse would be catastrophic.

The quote also raises questions about the nature of human consciousness and awareness. It suggests that people are often in a state of denial or ignorance about the negative impact of their actions, and that facing these truths would be a painful and transformative experience. Lowry's use of the word "remorse" implies a deep sense of personal responsibility and regret, indicating that the consequences of societal actions are not abstract or distant, but deeply personal and immediate.

In addition, the quote can be seen as a commentary on the fragility of modern civilization. The idea that it would "die of remorse" suggests that the foundations of contemporary society are built on unsustainable and damaging practices. It implies that the truth about the state of civilization is so devastating that it would lead to a collapse of the entire system. This interpretation speaks to the urgent need for reflection and change in order to avoid such a catastrophic outcome.

Overall, Lowry's quote is a powerful and provocative reflection on the state of modern civilization and the potential consequences of societal awakening. It challenges readers to consider the true cost of their actions and the urgent need for introspection and change. It serves as a reminder of the importance of confronting uncomfortable truths and taking responsibility for the impact of our choices on the world around us.