Meaning: The quote "Be just and if you can't be just, be arbitrary" by William S. Burroughs, the renowned American writer and visual artist, encapsulates a thought-provoking perspective on the concept of justice and decision-making. Burroughs, known for his unconventional and often controversial literary works, was a key figure in the Beat Generation and his writings often delved into themes of addiction, control, and the human condition.

The quote can be interpreted in various ways, but at its core, it seems to suggest that fairness and impartiality should be the guiding principles in one's actions. However, if achieving absolute justice seems unattainable or challenging in a particular situation, then the alternative might be to act decisively and assert authority, even if it means being arbitrary. This notion raises questions about the nature of justice, the complexities of moral decision-making, and the inevitability of compromise in real-world scenarios.

The first part of the quote, "Be just," advocates for fairness, equity, and adherence to moral principles. It encourages individuals to strive for righteousness in their actions and decisions, emphasizing the importance of upholding ethical standards and treating others with equity and respect. This aligns with traditional notions of justice as a moral virtue and a cornerstone of societal harmony.

However, the latter part of the quote, "and if you can't be just, be arbitrary," introduces a contrasting perspective. The word "arbitrary" implies a lack of justification or reasoning behind a decision, suggesting a more authoritarian or unpredictable approach. This notion challenges the conventional understanding of justice as a rational and equitable process, raising the question of whether it is sometimes necessary to prioritize authority and assertiveness over fairness.

One interpretation of this quote could be that it acknowledges the inherent complexities and limitations of achieving perfect justice in every situation. It recognizes that despite our best intentions, there may be instances where achieving absolute fairness is unfeasible or impractical. In such cases, the quote seems to suggest that taking decisive action, even if it means being arbitrary, may be preferable to indecision or inaction.

Another interpretation could be that the quote reflects a cynical or resigned view of justice, acknowledging the prevalence of arbitrariness and unfairness in the world. It might be seen as a commentary on the imperfect nature of human judgment and the inevitability of subjective biases and power dynamics influencing decisions.

In the context of Burroughs' own body of work, which often explored themes of control, addiction, and societal power structures, the quote may also be interpreted as a reflection of the author's skepticism towards established systems of justice and authority. Burroughs was known for his iconoclastic and anti-establishment views, and this quote could be seen as a reflection of his subversive attitude towards traditional norms and institutions.

Ultimately, the quote "Be just and if you can't be just, be arbitrary" offers a thought-provoking reflection on the complexities of justice, morality, and decision-making. It challenges the simplistic notion of justice as a purely rational and equitable concept, acknowledging the nuances and dilemmas inherent in real-world ethical considerations. Whether viewed as a call for principled action or a cynical commentary on the limitations of justice, the quote encourages contemplation on the nature of fairness and authority in human affairs.

In conclusion, William S. Burroughs' quote "Be just and if you can't be just, be arbitrary" presents a compelling juxtaposition of justice and arbitrariness, inviting contemplation on the complexities of moral decision-making. It challenges conventional notions of justice as a purely rational and equitable concept, acknowledging the inherent dilemmas and limitations in striving for fairness. Whether interpreted as a call for principled action or a cynical commentary on the imperfections of justice, the quote encapsulates Burroughs' thought-provoking perspective on the human condition and the nature of authority.