Meaning: The quote "We are here and it is now. Further than that, all human knowledge is moonshine" is attributed to H.L. Mencken, an influential American journalist, satirist, cultural critic, and scholar of American English. This profound quote encapsulates Mencken's skepticism about the limits of human knowledge and the nature of reality.

Mencken was known for his wit and acerbic commentary on American society, politics, and culture, and this quote reflects his philosophical perspective on the human condition. By stating "We are here and it is now," Mencken emphasizes the immediacy and presence of the current moment. This can be interpreted as a call to focus on the present, rather than being preoccupied with speculative or abstract knowledge that may be beyond our grasp.

The phrase "all human knowledge is moonshine" is particularly striking. "Moonshine" typically refers to illicitly distilled alcohol, but in this context, Mencken uses it metaphorically to suggest that human knowledge, beyond the immediate experience of being present, is illusory or insubstantial. This challenges the notion that human knowledge can fully comprehend the complexity of existence, and implies that there are inherent limitations to our understanding of the world.

Mencken's skepticism about human knowledge aligns with philosophical traditions that question the nature of reality and the capacity of human cognition to grasp it fully. This existentialist outlook echoes the works of thinkers such as Friedrich Nietzsche, who also critiqued the limitations of human knowledge and emphasized the importance of embracing the present moment.

In the context of contemporary society, Mencken's quote invites reflection on the nature of knowledge in an age characterized by an overwhelming abundance of information. With the proliferation of data and the constant expansion of human knowledge, Mencken's words serve as a reminder to question the veracity and significance of the information we encounter. It prompts us to consider the distinction between factual understanding and the subjective interpretation of reality.

Moreover, Mencken's quote challenges the prevailing belief in the primacy of knowledge and rationality, suggesting that there are dimensions of existence that transcend human comprehension. This perspective resonates with the concept of "awe" or the sublime, which acknowledges the existence of phenomena that elude rational explanation and evoke a sense of wonder and humility.

In conclusion, H.L. Mencken's quote "We are here and it is now. Further than that, all human knowledge is moonshine" encapsulates his philosophical skepticism about the limits of human knowledge and the nature of reality. It prompts us to contemplate the nature of knowledge, the immediacy of the present moment, and the inherent limitations of human understanding. Mencken's words continue to provoke contemplation and discussion, inviting us to critically examine our assumptions about knowledge and existence.