Meaning: This quote is from the novel "The Stranger" by Albert Camus. The protagonist, Meursault, makes this observation as he is being taken to the prison after being convicted of murder. The quote reflects Meursault's sense of detachment and alienation from the world around him. It also reveals his disdain for societal norms and expectations, as well as his perception of freedom and individual agency.

Meursault's perspective on the other inmates standing in a long straight line, flanked by guards, reflects his existentialist outlook on life. He sees the other prisoners as lacking the will to resist or challenge their circumstances, contrasting sharply with his own sense of agency and detachment from societal conventions. Meursault's lack of respect for the other inmates stems from his belief that they have resigned themselves to their fate and have accepted their lack of freedom, while he perceives himself as someone who refuses to conform and is unwilling to be restrained by the expectations of society.

The quote also captures Meursault's view on the concept of freedom and the willingness to escape. To him, the idea of running or trying to escape represents a rejection of societal constraints and a pursuit of individual liberty. Meursault's disdain for the other inmates who do not attempt to flee reflects his own rejection of societal norms and his desire to live a life free from the constraints of societal expectations.

Albert Camus, the author of "The Stranger," was a prominent figure in the existentialist movement. Existentialism is a philosophical and literary movement that emphasizes individual freedom, choice, and responsibility in the face of an indifferent and often absurd world. Meursault's character embodies many existentialist themes, including the rejection of societal norms, the search for personal meaning in a seemingly meaningless world, and the assertion of individual agency in the face of societal constraints.

"The Stranger" is a novel that delves into the existential crisis of its protagonist, Meursault, as he navigates through life with a sense of detachment and indifference toward societal expectations. The quote captures Meursault's profound sense of alienation and his refusal to conform to societal norms. It also reflects his perception of freedom and the choices that individuals make in the face of societal constraints.

In conclusion, the quote from "The Stranger" by Albert Camus encapsulates Meursault's existentialist perspective on societal norms, freedom, and individual agency. It reflects his sense of detachment from the world around him and his disdain for those who conform to societal expectations. The quote serves as a poignant illustration of Meursault's existential crisis and his rejection of societal constraints, making it a significant reflection of the novel's existentialist themes.