Meaning: The quote "My father wanted me to be a pharmacist like himself. He had been a doctor, but he no longer believed in medicine; so he became a pharmacist, but he believed in that hardly more." by Claude Chabrol, a renowned French film director, reflects a complex relationship between a father and son, and the disillusionment with traditional professions. This quote suggests that the father, having been a doctor and then a pharmacist, had lost faith in the medical profession, and yet he still wanted his son to follow in his footsteps. The quote hints at the tension between familial expectations and individual autonomy, as well as the broader themes of disillusionment and the search for meaning in one's chosen path.

Claude Chabrol, known for his exploration of psychological complexity and social criticism in his films, often depicted the conflicts and complexities within familial and societal structures. In this quote, he captures the struggle of the son, who is expected to fulfill his father's wishes despite the father's own loss of faith in the medical field. The quote can be interpreted as a commentary on the generational divide and the weight of parental expectations.

The father's transition from being a doctor to a pharmacist, despite his diminishing belief in both professions, raises questions about the disillusionment that can occur within the medical field. It also suggests a sense of resignation or compromise, as the father seemingly settles for a profession in which he has "hardly more" belief. This could be seen as a critique of the limitations and contradictions within the healthcare system, as well as the broader societal disillusionment with traditional institutions.

Furthermore, the quote touches on the theme of personal conviction and belief in one's chosen vocation. The son is faced with the dilemma of whether to conform to his father's wishes or to pursue a path that aligns with his own beliefs and aspirations. Chabrol's portrayal of this internal conflict reflects the universal struggle of balancing personal autonomy with familial expectations, a theme that resonates with audiences across cultures and generations.

In a broader context, the quote can also be interpreted as a commentary on the human search for meaning and purpose in life. It highlights the challenges of navigating conflicting desires and aspirations, as well as the complexity of familial relationships. Chabrol's nuanced exploration of these themes in his films has earned him acclaim for his insightful and thought-provoking storytelling.

In conclusion, Claude Chabrol's quote "My father wanted me to be a pharmacist like himself. He had been a doctor, but he no longer believed in medicine; so he became a pharmacist, but he believed in that hardly more," encapsulates the tension between familial expectations and individual autonomy, the disillusionment within traditional professions, and the universal quest for personal conviction and meaning. Through this quote, Chabrol offers a poignant reflection on the complexities of human relationships and the search for purpose, themes that continue to resonate with audiences around the world.