Meaning: The quote "Is not the whole world a vast house of assignation of which the filing system has been lost?" is a thought-provoking statement made by Quentin Crisp, an English writer, raconteur, and actor known for his unique perspective on life and society. This quote can be interpreted in various ways, but at its core, it seems to reflect Crisp's perception of the chaotic and disorganized nature of the world and human interactions.

Crisp's use of the term "house of assignation" suggests a place where people come together for various purposes, possibly implying that the world is a gathering of individuals with diverse intentions and agendas. The notion of a "filing system" being lost within this vast house of assignation implies a lack of order, structure, or organization within the world. It suggests that the connections and relationships between people and events are haphazard or disordered, making it difficult to make sense of the world and its inhabitants.

One interpretation of this quote could be that Crisp is commenting on the seemingly random and unpredictable nature of human existence. The "filing system" that is lost may represent the sense of order or logic that many people seek in their lives. Without this organization, the world appears as a chaotic and confusing place, where the connections between individuals and events are unclear or nonsensical.

Another possible interpretation is that Crisp is highlighting the enigmatic and mysterious nature of human interactions and relationships. The "house of assignation" may symbolize the complex web of connections that exist between people, while the lost filing system suggests that these connections cannot be neatly categorized or understood. In this sense, the quote may allude to the depth and complexity of human experiences, which defy simple explanations or categorizations.

Furthermore, the quote could be seen as a commentary on the disarray and disorder that can be found in society at large. The "vast house of assignation" may represent the world as a whole, with its myriad cultures, societies, and individuals, while the lost filing system could signify a lack of clarity or coherence in the way these elements interact and intersect.

Quentin Crisp was known for his unapologetic and often controversial viewpoints, and this quote reflects his tendency to challenge conventional wisdom and societal norms. By presenting the world as a "vast house of assignation" with a lost filing system, Crisp invites us to question our assumptions about order, meaning, and purpose in the world. His words prompt us to consider the nature of our existence and the relationships that shape it, encouraging us to embrace the inherent complexity and ambiguity of life.

In conclusion, Quentin Crisp's quote "Is not the whole world a vast house of assignation of which the filing system has been lost?" encapsulates his unique perspective on the chaotic and enigmatic nature of the world. It invites us to contemplate the lack of order and structure in human interactions, the complexity of relationships, and the mysterious quality of existence. Crisp's thought-provoking words challenge us to reconsider our understanding of the world and our place within it, prompting us to embrace the inherent disorder and unpredictability of life.