He gave my hand a final shake. Okay, Kemp, he said with a grin. Thanks a lot – you came through like a champ. Hell, I said, starting the engine. We're all champs when we're drunk.
In Hunter S. Thompson's "The Rum Diary," the protagonist shares an encounter that captures the essence of camaraderie, especially under the influence of alcohol. A handshake between two characters signifies appreciation and mutual respect, highlighting a moment of connection and sincerity amidst the chaos of their lives.
The protagonist reflects on the nature of drunkenness, suggesting that inebriation brings out a sense of confidence and bravery in everyone. His comment about being a "champ" when drunk signifies that alcohol can distort perceptions and elevate ordinary moments into something more grandiose, blending humor with a sense of fleeting truth in their revelries.