A man's at odds to know his mind cause his mind is aught he has to know it with. He can know his heart, but he dont want to. Rightly so. Best not to look in there. It aint the heart of a creature that is bound in the way that God has set for it. You can find meanness in the least of creatures, but when God made man the devil was at his elbow. A creature that can do anything. Make a machine. And a machine to make the machine. And evil that can run itself a thousand years, no need to tend it.
In this reflection, McCarthy delves into the complexity of self-awareness and human nature. He suggests that a man struggles to understand his own mind because it is inherently linked to the very thoughts he is trying to grasp. While individuals can explore their emotions, like the heart, they often avoid doing so, perhaps fearing the darker aspects they might uncover. This avoidance is portrayed as a protective mechanism against the harsh realities of human existence.
The passage further explores the duality of mankind, emphasizing that humans possess the unique ability to create and innovate, illustrated by the concept of machines and self-replicating technology. However, within this capacity lies the potential for profound malevolence. The narrative warns that evil can persist unmonitored and evolve over time, signifying a deep-rooted struggle against the inherent darkness that accompanies human freedom and creativity.
