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Meaning
The quote humorously exaggerates how highly Wilson values breakfast. It places breakfast above even the possibility of immortality, which suggests it is treated as an almost sacred necessity. The joke depends on the contrast between an ordinary meal and enormous abstract values like life and immortality.
When It Was Said
2005
Who It Was Said To
Not documented yet.
Historical Context
Not documented yet.
Source
By His Bootstraps (p. 238)
Original Language & Translation
Originally said in English.
Did They Really Say It?
Listed with a cited source on Wikiquote: By His Bootstraps (p. 238).
Did You Know?
Wikiquote cites this line from By His Bootstraps (p. 238).
About Robert A. Heinlein
American science fiction author, engineer, and naval officer
Robert A. Heinlein was an American science fiction author, engineer, and naval officer. He is known as a major figure in twentieth-century science fiction, and is sometimes called the “dean of science fiction writers.” He was among the first writers to stress scientific accuracy in fiction, helping shape hard science fiction. His fiction and nonfiction often praise competence, encourage critical thinking, and place characters in situations that test conventional social values. His influence remains visible in the genre and in wider culture.
More from Robert A. Heinlein (162 quotes) →Keep reading Robert A. Heinlein
- “A desire not to butt into other people's business is at least eighty percent of all human wisdom.”Robert A. Heinlein
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- “If you are part of a society that votes, then do so. There may be no candidates and no measures you want to v…”Robert A. Heinlein
- “The less respect an older person deserves the more certain he is to demand it from anyone younger.”Robert A. Heinlein
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Books by Robert A. Heinlein
Starship Troopers
2006
Stranger in a Strange Land
1987
The moon is a harsh mistress
1983
The Door into Summer
1986
The Puppet Masters
1990