In Saul Bellow's "Herzog," the protagonist expresses a deep desire to be open and vulnerable without the need for traditional concepts of suffering or pain. He suggests that the complexities of love and emotional connection should not be tied to doctrines that require hardship or turmoil. Instead of embracing narratives filled with extreme crises and dramatic language, he seems to reject the glorification of suffering that often dominates discussions about love and existence.

His statement reflects a weariness with the conventions of apocalyptic thinking and a longing for genuine emotional intimacy that is free from the burdens of extreme experiences. By stating he has had enough of monstrosity, the character seeks a more straightforward approach to understanding his own feelings and relationships, emphasizing a desire for peace over chaos.