Meaning: This quote by Don DeLillo, an American novelist, encapsulates a sense of disillusionment and detachment from traditional education and societal expectations. In just a few sentences, DeLillo conveys a profound statement about the nature of education, the pursuit of knowledge, and the challenges of finding purpose and meaning in one's academic journey.

The quote begins with a striking declaration: "I slept for four years." This metaphorical statement suggests a period of dormancy or inactivity, implying that the speaker did not fully engage with the educational experience. It conveys a sense of apathy or disinterest in the traditional academic pursuits that one might expect from a college or university experience. The idea of "sleeping" for four years also hints at a loss of time or opportunity, as if the speaker feels that they squandered their chance to engage meaningfully with their education.

The next part of the quote, "I didn't study much of anything," reinforces the notion of disengagement from the academic process. It suggests a lack of intellectual curiosity or motivation to delve deeply into any particular subject matter. This statement could be interpreted as a critique of the educational system or a reflection of the speaker's own disenchanted attitude towards learning.

The mention of majoring in "something called communication arts" adds another layer of complexity to the quote. The use of the phrase "something called" implies a degree of ambiguity or uncertainty about the value or significance of the chosen field of study. This could be seen as a commentary on the perceived lack of practicality or substance in the speaker's academic pursuits.

Taken together, these elements of the quote convey a sense of disillusionment with traditional education and the pursuit of knowledge. The speaker's experience seems to have been marked by a lack of engagement, direction, and purpose, leading to a feeling of emptiness or dissatisfaction with the educational process.

Don DeLillo, as the author of this quote, is known for his incisive commentary on contemporary culture, technology, and the human condition. His novels often explore themes of alienation, existential angst, and the impact of mass media and consumerism on society. This quote can be seen as a reflection of these recurring themes in DeLillo's work, offering a glimpse into the mindset of a character who feels disconnected from the conventional paths of intellectual and academic growth.

In conclusion, Don DeLillo's quote captures a sense of disillusionment and detachment from traditional education, reflecting a feeling of disengagement and apathy towards the pursuit of knowledge. It serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the challenges of finding meaning and purpose within the academic experience, and it resonates with themes that are often explored in DeLillo's body of work.