Meaning: This quote by Joyce Cary, an English novelist and artist, delves into the concept of human willpower and its inherent connection to an object or purpose. Cary compares the will to an engine in a car, emphasizing that while it provides the driving force, it lacks the ability to direct or steer itself. This thought-provoking statement sheds light on the complex nature of human decision-making and the underlying motivations that guide our actions.

Cary's analogy of the will as an engine in a car offers a vivid depiction of its role as a driving force. Just as an engine propels a car forward, the will provides the impetus for human action. However, the crucial distinction lies in the notion that the will is always attached to an object or purpose. This implies that our desires, intentions, and choices are inherently linked to external factors, whether they be tangible goals or abstract aspirations.

By likening the will to an engine that cannot steer, Cary highlights its inherent limitation in determining the direction of our actions. This suggests that while the will fuels our endeavors, it is ultimately subject to external influences that shape its trajectory. In this sense, the quote encapsulates the idea that our willpower alone is not sufficient to navigate life's complexities. It underscores the interplay between internal drive and external circumstances, raising questions about the extent of human agency in the face of external constraints.

Furthermore, Cary's assertion that the will is never free challenges the traditional notion of free will as an autonomous, unconstrained faculty. Instead, it suggests that our will is invariably bound to external objects or purposes, thereby complicating the simplistic notion of unbridled choice. This perspective aligns with philosophical debates on determinism and agency, prompting reflection on the intricate interplay between our internal volition and the external world.

In the broader context of human behavior and decision-making, Cary's quote invites contemplation on the multifaceted nature of motivation. It prompts us to consider the underlying purposes and desires that drive our actions, as well as the external factors that shape and constrain our choices. Moreover, it underscores the intricate interdependence between individual willpower and the external environment, elucidating the nuanced dynamics at play in our decision-making processes.

From a psychological standpoint, the quote resonates with the concept of motivation theory, which explores the factors that drive human behavior. It aligns with the notion that motivation is inherently tied to specific goals or objectives, emphasizing the instrumental role of purpose in shaping our actions. Moreover, it underscores the complex interplay between internal drives and external stimuli, shedding light on the intricate web of influences that contribute to our decision-making.

In conclusion, Joyce Cary's quote offers a compelling perspective on the nature of human willpower and its relationship to external objects and purposes. By likening the will to an engine in a car, Cary encapsulates the idea that while it serves as a driving force, it remains tethered to external influences. This thought-provoking statement prompts contemplation on the intricate interplay between internal volition and external factors, challenging conventional notions of free will and agency. Ultimately, Cary's quote invites us to delve into the complexities of human motivation and decision-making, fostering a deeper understanding of the forces that propel us forward in life.