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Liquor is the chloroform which enables the poor man to endure the painful operation of living.
George Bernard Shaw
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote suggests that alcohol serves as a temporary escape for those struggling in life.

George Bernard Shaw's quote highlights the role of alcohol as a coping mechanism for individuals facing the harsh realities of life, particularly for the less fortunate. By comparing liquor to chloroform, he implies that while it may numb pain and provide relief, it is ultimately a superficial solution to deeper issues that require more comprehensive address.

Themes

AlcoholCopingLifePainEscape

In practice

Example use cases

During a toast at a gathering, one might say this quote to reflect on life's challenges.

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What we want is to see the child in pursuit of knowledge, and not knowledge in pursuit of the child.
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The happiness of credulity is a cheap and dangerous quality.
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