Meaning: This quote by Leslie Charteris beautifully captures the essence of living life to the fullest and embracing the spirit of romance. Charteris, a British-American author, is best known for creating the literary character Simon Templar, also known as "The Saint." His writings often reflected themes of adventure, romance, and living life with passion and purpose.

In the quote, Charteris describes a person who believes in romance not as a mere concept, but as a way of life. The individual is portrayed as someone who is not simply going through the motions of life, but instead, is actively and passionately engaging with the world around them. This portrayal emphasizes the idea of living life to the fullest and finding joy in every experience.

The phrase "mechanical movements of a man in an exciting situation" suggests a superficial or insincere approach to life. It conveys the idea of going through the motions without truly experiencing or appreciating the beauty and excitement that life has to offer. In contrast, the person described by Charteris is depicted as someone who is fully engaged and committed to extracting "the last drop of delight" from life.

The use of the word "vitally" underscores the importance of this approach to living. It implies a sense of vitality, energy, and enthusiasm in the individual's pursuit of a fulfilling life. Additionally, the word "positively" emphasizes the proactive and optimistic nature of the person's mindset. Rather than passively accepting whatever life may bring, this individual actively seeks out and embraces the best that life has to offer.

Furthermore, the quote highlights the idea of living the best life one knows in the best way one can. This notion is deeply personal, suggesting that each person's "best life" is unique to them. It encourages individuals to define their own standards of happiness and fulfillment and to actively pursue them with dedication and authenticity.

Overall, Leslie Charteris's quote encapsulates a profound philosophy of embracing life with passion, purpose, and a genuine appreciation for the experiences it presents. It encourages individuals to reject a mechanical, passive existence and instead embrace the richness of life with vitality, positivity, and a commitment to savoring every moment.

In conclusion, Charteris's words serve as a powerful reminder to live life with a sense of romance, not just in the context of love and relationships, but in the broader sense of approaching life with passion, enthusiasm, and a deep appreciation for the beauty and joy it has to offer. It is a call to actively engage with the world, to seek out delight in every experience, and to live authentically in pursuit of one's own best life.