Meaning: This quote by Sun Ra, the influential jazz musician, reflects on the tragic and destructive tendencies of human behavior. The quote speaks to the violence, injustice, and neglect that humans inflict upon one another, highlighting the profound suffering that results from these actions.

Sun Ra, born Herman Poole Blount, was a highly innovative and visionary figure in the world of jazz music. He was known for his avant-garde approach to music, as well as for his spiritual and philosophical beliefs. Throughout his career, Sun Ra often incorporated themes of cosmic consciousness, human potential, and societal transformation into his work, using his music as a platform for expressing his views on the human condition.

In this quote, Sun Ra laments the widespread violence and mistreatment that humans perpetrate against one another. The phrase "killing his brother and his own kind" alludes to the destructive acts of violence and conflict that have plagued human history. This could be interpreted as encompassing not only physical acts of violence, but also the broader idea of harming others through discrimination, oppression, or neglect.

The mention of "putting him in jail and insane asylums" draws attention to the ways in which society has historically responded to individuals who are deemed to be outside of societal norms. Sun Ra's use of the word "putting" suggests a sense of confinement and control, reflecting a critical perspective on the ways in which institutions like prisons and mental health facilities have been used to marginalize and oppress certain individuals.

The phrase "letting him lay out in the street" further emphasizes the theme of neglect and abandonment. This could be seen as a commentary on the failure of society to provide adequate support and care for those who are most vulnerable and in need. Sun Ra's use of the word "letting" implies a sense of complicity or inaction on the part of society in allowing such suffering to persist.

Overall, Sun Ra's quote serves as a powerful indictment of the destructive tendencies of human behavior, as well as a call for greater empathy, compassion, and social responsibility. Through his words, he challenges us to confront the ways in which we perpetuate harm and suffering, and to strive for a more just and compassionate world.

In conclusion, Sun Ra's quote captures the deep sense of tragedy and sorrow that arises from human actions, and it serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for greater understanding, empathy, and solidarity among all people. His words continue to resonate as a powerful commentary on the human condition, urging us to reflect on our own behavior and work towards creating a more just and compassionate society.