Meaning: The quote "Every literary critic believes he will outwit history and have the last word" by Mason Cooley reflects the enduring tension between the desire for immortality and the limitations of human existence. Mason Cooley, an American aphorist known for his witty and insightful observations, captures the egotism and ambition often associated with literary criticism. In this quote, Cooley suggests that literary critics, like many individuals in the arts and humanities, strive for a form of intellectual immortality by seeking to leave a lasting mark on the discourse surrounding literature.

Literary criticism, as a discipline, is characterized by the ongoing conversation about the meaning, significance, and impact of literary works. Critics analyze, interpret, and evaluate literature, offering insights that can shape the way a work is understood and appreciated. However, the quote implies that despite the critics' aspirations, their efforts are ultimately subject to the passage of time and the evolution of cultural and intellectual perspectives. The phrase "outwit history" suggests a desire to surpass the constraints of temporal limitations and assert a lasting influence over the interpretation of literary works.

The notion of having "the last word" speaks to the critic's aspiration to establish an authoritative interpretation that will endure beyond their own lifetime. Critics often aim to shape the prevailing understanding of a work, positioning themselves as arbiters of its meaning and significance. This quest for intellectual dominance reflects a desire for recognition and influence, as critics seek to leave a lasting legacy within the field of literary criticism.

The quote also highlights the tension between individual ambition and the broader currents of history. Critics, like all individuals, are bound by the constraints of mortality and subject to the inevitable passage of time. Despite their efforts to shape literary discourse, they are ultimately participants in a larger historical narrative that transcends their individual contributions. The quote suggests a degree of irony in the critic's belief that they can "outwit history," as it acknowledges the futility of attempting to assert permanent control over the interpretation of literary works.

Furthermore, the quote invites contemplation of the nature of intellectual legacy and the ways in which individuals seek to perpetuate their influence beyond their own lifetimes. Literary critics, like writers and artists, grapple with the tension between the ephemeral nature of human existence and the desire for enduring significance. The quote encapsulates the universal human aspiration to transcend the limitations of mortality and leave a lasting impact on the cultural and intellectual landscape.

In conclusion, Mason Cooley's quote "Every literary critic believes he will outwit history and have the last word" encapsulates the tension between individual ambition and the constraints of historical reality. It illuminates the complex dynamics of literary criticism, the quest for intellectual immortality, and the enduring human aspiration to leave a lasting mark on the cultural and intellectual landscape. Despite the hubris implicit in the quote, it also acknowledges the inevitable limitations of individual influence in the face of the inexorable march of history.