Meaning: The quote "I absolutely don't believe in anything. Full stop. Including luck." by Al Alvarez presents a stark and uncompromising view of the world. Al Alvarez, an English poet, novelist, essayist, and critic, is known for his straightforward and unapologetic approach to life and literature. This quote encapsulates his nihilistic perspective, rejecting belief in anything, even luck, which is often seen as a universal force beyond human control.

Al Alvarez's statement can be interpreted in several ways. On one level, it reflects a deep skepticism and a refusal to subscribe to any form of faith or superstition. By rejecting belief in anything, Alvarez may be expressing a rejection of religious or spiritual doctrines, as well as a skepticism towards any form of predetermined destiny or cosmic influence. This perspective aligns with existentialist and nihilist philosophies, which emphasize the absence of inherent meaning or purpose in the universe.

Furthermore, the inclusion of "luck" in Alvarez's statement is particularly noteworthy. Luck is often perceived as a capricious and uncontrollable force that can shape the outcomes of our lives. By disavowing belief in luck, Alvarez may be asserting a belief in the power of individual agency and self-determination. This aligns with the idea that individuals are ultimately responsible for their own actions and the outcomes they experience, rather than being at the mercy of external forces beyond their control.

Al Alvarez's rejection of belief in anything, including luck, also speaks to a broader existential theme of human autonomy and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe. By denying the existence of external forces or guiding principles, Alvarez's statement places a significant emphasis on the individual's ability to navigate and make sense of their own existence. This perspective resonates with the existentialist notion of "existence precedes essence," which asserts that individuals create their own meanings and values through their choices and actions.

It is important to note that Alvarez's quote can be seen as both liberating and daunting. On one hand, it frees individuals from the constraints of external expectations and predetermined outcomes. It encourages a sense of empowerment and autonomy, as individuals are not bound by the whims of luck or the dictates of fate. On the other hand, the absence of belief in anything can also be disorienting and unsettling, as it raises questions about the nature of existence and the possibility of finding purpose and significance in a world devoid of inherent meaning.

In conclusion, Al Alvarez's quote "I absolutely don't believe in anything. Full stop. Including luck." encapsulates a profound rejection of belief in external forces and a resolute emphasis on individual agency and autonomy. This statement reflects Alvarez's nihilistic perspective and his skepticism towards predetermined destinies and cosmic influences. It invites contemplation on the nature of human existence and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe.