Guy cradled his tux, stroking it, running his fingers incestuously over the satin stripe on the trousers. There is a satisfaction that only superb clothing can offer, the joy of man raising himself from the mud, vindicating evolution. Life cannot lack purpose if a tuxedo exists-this is the obvious reply to the Samuel Beckett canon.
In the excerpt from Paul Rudnick's "Social Disease," Guy finds comfort and satisfaction in his tuxedo, treating it almost like a cherished possession. He delicately caresses the fabric, experiencing a sense of pride that comes from wearing high-quality clothing. This act symbolizes a deeper existential achievement, suggesting that dressing well allows one to transcend the difficulties of life and embrace a more refined existence.
Rudnick implies that the presence of items like a tuxedo gives life a greater meaning, as they represent both personal evolution and aspiration. Through this lens, he seemingly critiques existentialist ideas, particularly those of Samuel Beckett, by asserting that fine clothing can restore purpose and dignity, leading to a new appreciation of one's identity and social standing.
