Meaning: The quote you've provided is by Gregory Corso, an American poet associated with the Beat Generation, a literary movement that emerged in the 1950s and 1960s. In this quote, Corso expresses his admiration for another writer, William S. Burroughs, and acknowledges Burroughs' intelligence and his unconventional path to learning.

William S. Burroughs was also a key figure of the Beat Generation and is best known for his novel "Naked Lunch." His writing often delved into themes of drug culture, addiction, and countercultural movements. Burroughs himself had a tumultuous life, marked by drug use and run-ins with the law. His experiences in the underground drug scene and his unorthodox lifestyle deeply influenced his writing and worldview.

Corso's admiration for Burroughs is evident in the quote, as he refers to him as "a smart man" who "learned it through the druggie pool." This suggests that Corso saw Burroughs' intelligence as being shaped by his experiences in the drug culture and the broader street scene. Corso also alludes to an "old aristocratic kind of man," possibly hinting at the paradox of Burroughs' refined intellect juxtaposed with his immersion in a subversive and unconventional lifestyle.

The quote captures the essence of the Beat Generation's fascination with nonconformity and the rejection of societal norms. The Beats sought to challenge traditional literary and social conventions, and they often found inspiration in the fringes of society, including the drug culture that Burroughs and others were a part of. This countercultural stance is reflected in Corso's admiration for Burroughs, who, like other Beat writers, embraced a bohemian lifestyle and rebelled against mainstream values.

Corso's own background as a streetwise poet and his association with the Beat Generation further contextualize his appreciation for Burroughs. As a member of this literary movement, Corso shared a common bond with Burroughs and other Beats in their rejection of the status quo and their quest for artistic and personal freedom.

It's important to note that while the Beat Generation celebrated individualism and experimentation, it also faced criticism and controversy. The movement's embrace of drugs, sexuality, and anti-establishment ideas drew both admiration and condemnation. Burroughs' own experiences with drug addiction and his candid exploration of these themes in his writing contributed to the polarizing nature of the Beat Generation's work.

In conclusion, Gregory Corso's quote about William S. Burroughs reflects the Beat Generation's ethos of celebrating unconventional wisdom and defying societal expectations. It highlights the admiration and respect that Corso, as a fellow Beat writer, had for Burroughs' intellectual prowess and unorthodox journey of self-education. The quote not only offers insight into the dynamics of the Beat Generation but also serves as a testament to the enduring influence of Burroughs and his legacy as a groundbreaking literary figure.