Meaning: The quote "And, uh, I've got about six thousand cartoons up there, also books and papers" is attributed to the famous cartoonist Rube Goldberg. Born Reuben Garrett Lucius Goldberg in 1883, Rube Goldberg was an American cartoonist, sculptor, author, engineer, and inventor, best known for his popular cartoons depicting complex, convoluted machines designed to perform simple tasks. His cartoons often satirized the over-engineering and complexity of modern life, and his name has become synonymous with any unnecessarily complicated or intricate system.

The quote suggests that Rube Goldberg had an extensive collection of his own work, including around six thousand cartoons, as well as books and papers. This collection likely encompassed his lifetime of creative output and may have served as a valuable resource for studying his artistic and engineering processes.

Rube Goldberg's cartoons are iconic for their intricate designs and humorous depictions of overly complicated machines. His illustrations often featured elaborate contraptions that performed mundane tasks, such as opening a door or sharpening a pencil, in an overly convoluted manner. These machines, which came to be known as "Rube Goldberg machines," have since inspired generations of inventors, artists, and engineers to create their own whimsical and elaborate contraptions.

Beyond his cartoons, Rube Goldberg was also a prolific author, with several books and papers to his name. His writings often reflected his keen observations of human behavior and the absurdities of modern society. He used his wit and artistic talents to illuminate the complexities and inefficiencies of everyday life, offering a unique perspective that continues to resonate with audiences today.

In addition to his artistic endeavors, Rube Goldberg was also a trained engineer, a background that undoubtedly influenced the intricate designs and technical accuracy of his cartoons. His ability to blend humor with technical expertise made his work both entertaining and intellectually stimulating, appealing to a wide audience of readers and admirers.

The quote hints at the depth and breadth of Rube Goldberg's creative output and the significance of his legacy. The collection of six thousand cartoons, along with his books and papers, represents a treasure trove of artistic and intellectual material that provides valuable insights into his creative process, artistic evolution, and the cultural impact of his work.

Rube Goldberg's influence extends far beyond the world of cartoons and engineering. His name has become synonymous with any needlessly complicated or convoluted system or process, and his legacy continues to inspire artists, inventors, and thinkers around the world. In recognition of his lasting impact, the Reuben Award, presented annually by the National Cartoonists Society, is named in his honor.

In conclusion, the quote by Rube Goldberg provides a glimpse into the vast collection of his work and the depth of his creative output. It serves as a reminder of his enduring legacy as a cartoonist, author, and engineer whose contributions have left an indelible mark on popular culture and the creative arts.