Meaning: This quote by Henry Miller, an American writer known for his controversial and provocative novels, reflects his unconventional and rebellious attitude towards societal norms and established systems of morality and ethics. In this quote, Miller challenges the significance of moralities, ethics, laws, customs, beliefs, and doctrines, dismissing them as of "trifling import." Instead, he advocates for the prioritization of embracing the miraculous and extraordinary as the norm.

Miller's rejection of conventional moral and ethical frameworks can be seen as a reflection of his non-conformist and individualistic worldview. Throughout his literary works, Miller often explored themes of freedom, self-expression, and the rejection of societal constraints. His writing was characterized by its explicit and uninhibited portrayal of human experiences, often challenging traditional moral and ethical boundaries.

When Miller speaks of "the miraculous," he may be referring to experiences or phenomena that are extraordinary, awe-inspiring, or transcendent. By advocating for the miraculous to become the norm, Miller seems to be suggesting a radical reorientation of values and priorities, one that prioritizes the pursuit of the exceptional and the extraordinary over adherence to conventional moral and ethical codes.

It is important to note that Miller's perspective should be understood within the context of his own life experiences and the historical period in which he lived. Born in 1891, Miller came of age during a time of significant social and cultural upheaval, including the aftermath of World War I, the rise of the modernist movement in art and literature, and the emergence of new social and political ideologies. These influences likely shaped Miller's skepticism towards established moral, ethical, and societal norms.

It's also worth considering that Miller's rejection of moralities, ethics, and customs may not necessarily imply a complete absence of personal values or principles. Instead, it may reflect a deep-seated skepticism towards the rigidity and imposition of conventional moral and ethical codes, as well as a desire to transcend limitations and embrace the boundless possibilities of human experience.

In contemporary discourse, Miller's quote may resonate with individuals who seek to challenge and question prevailing norms and expectations. It raises important questions about the nature of morality, ethics, and societal conventions, prompting us to consider the ways in which these constructs influence our lives and limit our potential for experiencing the extraordinary.

Ultimately, Henry Miller's quote serves as a provocative invitation to reexamine our assumptions about what is considered normal or acceptable, and to contemplate the transformative power of embracing the miraculous in our lives. Whether or not one agrees with Miller's perspective, his words compel us to engage in critical reflection on the nature of morality, ethics, and the societal structures that shape our understanding of the world.