Meaning: This quote by Damon Runyon, a well-known American journalist and writer, is a humorous and satirical commentary on the idea of innovation and the praise that sometimes accompanies seemingly unconventional or unorthodox methods. The quote presents a comical image of a man who has come up with a unique and unorthodox way of changing a diaper, by simply hanging the baby on the clothesline to dry. The absurdity of the situation is highlighted by the fact that the man is "greatly admired by his fellow citizens" for this supposed innovation.

Damon Runyon was known for his distinctive style of writing, which often featured colorful characters and humorous anecdotes. His works, including short stories and newspaper columns, often showcased the eccentricities of human behavior and the quirks of everyday life. In this quote, Runyon uses humor and exaggeration to satirize the concept of innovation and the tendency of people to praise unconventional ideas simply for the sake of appearing innovative.

The quote can be interpreted as a commentary on the nature of praise and recognition in society. It highlights the tendency of people to applaud and admire seemingly groundbreaking or innovative ideas without critically evaluating their practicality or sensibility. The image of a man receiving admiration for a preposterous and impractical method of changing a diaper serves as a humorous exaggeration of this phenomenon.

Furthermore, the quote may also be seen as a critique of the blind acceptance of innovation without considering its actual impact or consequences. The fact that the man is "greatly admired" for his absurd diaper-changing method suggests a disconnect between the perceived value of innovation and its real-world implications. Runyon's use of humor and satire in this quote serves as a clever way to draw attention to the often uncritical celebration of novelty and innovation in society.

In a broader sense, the quote can be viewed as a reflection on the human tendency to seek novelty and praise unconventional ideas, even when they may lack practicality or common sense. It points to the allure of innovation and the desire for recognition, often at the expense of reason and logic.

Overall, Damon Runyon's quote about hanging a baby on a clothesline to dry as a supposed innovation in diaper-changing is a witty and satirical commentary on the nature of innovation, recognition, and the human proclivity for applauding unconventional ideas without considering their practicality. Through humor and exaggeration, the quote sheds light on the often uncritical celebration of novelty and innovation in society, prompting the audience to reflect on the true value of innovation and the consequences of blindly embracing unconventional ideas.