Meaning:
The quote "He resolved, having done it once, never to move his eyeballs again" is a humorous and somewhat perplexing statement made by the renowned English novelist Kingsley Amis. Amis was known for his wit and satirical style, and this quote is a perfect example of his unique perspective and clever wordplay.
At first glance, the quote might seem nonsensical or absurd. How could someone possibly resolve never to move their eyeballs again? However, when considered in the context of Amis's body of work and his overall approach to writing, it becomes clear that the quote is a playful commentary on human nature and the often irrational decisions we make.
Kingsley Amis was a prolific and influential author, best known for his novels that satirized the British class system and the pretensions of the intellectual elite. His writing style was characterized by sharp wit, keen observation, and a knack for capturing the absurdity of everyday life. In many of his works, he used humor and irony to critique societal norms and human behavior, and this quote can be seen as a reflection of that approach.
In the context of the quote, "He resolved, having done it once, never to move his eyeballs again," it's possible to interpret it as a humorous exaggeration of the human tendency to make grand declarations or decisions based on fleeting experiences or emotions. The idea of resolving never to move one's eyeballs again is obviously impractical and impossible, but it serves as a commentary on the often irrational and illogical nature of human decision-making.
Amis was known for his ability to infuse his writing with a sense of the absurd and the comical, and this quote exemplifies that talent. It's a reminder that life is full of contradictions, irrational impulses, and moments of absurdity, and Amis had a keen eye for capturing those aspects of the human experience in his work.
It's worth noting that this quote is also a testament to Amis's skill as a wordsmith. The phrasing is clever and attention-grabbing, and it demonstrates his ability to craft memorable and thought-provoking lines. Even in a brief, seemingly nonsensical statement, Amis manages to pique the reader's curiosity and invite them to consider the deeper meaning behind the words.
In conclusion, the quote "He resolved, having done it once, never to move his eyeballs again" encapsulates Kingsley Amis's distinctive blend of humor, insight, and linguistic skill. It's a playful and thought-provoking statement that invites us to reflect on the quirks of human behavior and the absurdity of life. As with much of Amis's work, it's a reminder that sometimes the most profound truths are found in the most unexpected places.