Meaning: This quote by John Dos Passos, an American novelist and artist, provides a glimpse into the inner turmoil and self-doubt that many individuals may experience at some point in their lives. Dos Passos suggests that a romanticized, dramatic approach to life could lead to a desire for attention and notoriety, even at the expense of one's own life. By stating, "If I were sufficiently romantic I suppose I'd have killed myself long ago just to make people talk about me," Dos Passos implies that some individuals may seek validation and recognition through extreme actions, such as suicide, in order to leave a lasting impact on others. However, he also acknowledges his lack of conviction, expressing that he is unable to even successfully pursue a self-destructive path, such as becoming a drunkard.

Dos Passos' quote reflects the complex relationship between individual identity, societal expectations, and the desire for significance. It touches upon themes of existentialism, the search for meaning, and the struggle to reconcile personal desires with external pressures. The quote suggests a certain disillusionment with the idea of seeking attention or validation through extreme actions, as Dos Passos seems to view such approaches as hollow or lacking in substance.

In the context of Dos Passos' own life and work, this quote may be interpreted as a reflection of the author's introspective nature and his exploration of the human condition in his writing. Dos Passos was known for his exploration of American society and the impact of modernity on the individual, often incorporating elements of disillusionment, alienation, and the search for personal identity in his novels. His comment about not having the conviction to be a successful drunkard may also allude to his own struggles with self-destructive behaviors or vices, and his contemplation of the consequences of such choices.

Dos Passos' statement can also be seen as a commentary on the nature of fame and recognition in society. By highlighting the notion of "making people talk about me," he draws attention to the often superficial and fleeting nature of public attention and notoriety. The quote suggests a skepticism towards the idea of seeking validation through sensational or extreme actions, hinting at a deeper longing for authenticity and genuine fulfillment.

Overall, Dos Passos' quote offers a thought-provoking reflection on the complexities of human emotion, the search for meaning, and the tension between personal desires and societal expectations. It invites contemplation on the nature of recognition, the pursuit of significance, and the potential emptiness of seeking validation through dramatic or extreme means. Through his words, Dos Passos prompts readers to consider the authenticity of their own desires for attention and recognition, and the potential consequences of pursuing such desires at any cost.