Meaning: The quote "After one look at this planet any visitor from outer space would say 'I want to see the manager.'" by William S. Burroughs, a renowned American writer, reflects a satirical and critical view of the state of the Earth and its management. Burroughs, known for his unconventional and often controversial writing style, often delved into themes of societal critique, addiction, and the human condition. This particular quote captures a sense of disillusionment and dissatisfaction with the way things are run on our planet.

In this quote, the hypothetical visitor from outer space represents an objective and unbiased perspective, untouched by the complexities of human society. The visitor's immediate reaction to the state of the planet is to demand to see the manager, indicating a profound sense of disbelief and incredulity at the current state of affairs. This can be interpreted as a metaphor for the chaos, conflict, and mismanagement that the visitor perceives upon observing Earth.

Burroughs' use of the phrase "I want to see the manager" is significant as it conveys a sense of urgency and a demand for accountability. It suggests that the current state of the world is so chaotic and disordered that it requires immediate attention and intervention. By framing the visitor's response in this way, Burroughs effectively highlights the absurdity and dysfunctionality of human civilization from an outsider's perspective.

The quote can be seen as a reflection of Burroughs' own disillusionment with the state of the world. Throughout his writing, he often explored themes of societal decay, corruption, and the destructive impact of human behavior on the planet. This quote encapsulates his critical perspective on the management (or mismanagement) of Earth and serves as a call to action for greater accountability and responsibility.

Moreover, the quote can also be interpreted as a commentary on the human tendency to seek authority figures or leadership in times of crisis or confusion. The visitor's immediate instinct to demand to see the manager reflects a universal desire for someone to take charge and address the issues at hand. However, the choice of words also implies a certain degree of skepticism towards the effectiveness of those in managerial positions, suggesting a lack of confidence in the current systems of governance and leadership.

In conclusion, William S. Burroughs' quote "After one look at this planet any visitor from outer space would say 'I want to see the manager.'" offers a thought-provoking and critical perspective on the state of Earth and its management. Through the use of satire and metaphor, Burroughs captures a sense of disillusionment and urgency, prompting readers to reflect on the state of the world and consider the need for greater accountability and responsibility in addressing societal and environmental challenges.