I knew even before we got it rolling that this here was the type asshole that subscribed to magazines like the Nation and Atlantic and probably even read them, and that I didn't stand a snowball's chance against him in an argument; but I was too oiled too keep my mouth shut.
The quote reflects the speaker's awareness of their adversary's intelligence and pretentiousness. They recognize that the person they are engaging with has a strong academic background, suggesting a familiarity with leftist publications like The Nation and The Atlantic. This acknowledgment indicates that the speaker feels outmatched and ill-equipped for a debate. Despite this realization, their inebriation compels them to voice their thoughts rather than remain silent.
This insight reveals a struggle between self-awareness and the urge to participate in a conversation. The speaker understands the futility of their position but is unable to restrain themselves, highlighting a common experience where emotions or substances cloud judgment. The tension between feeling overpowered intellectually and the desire to express oneself adds depth to the character's dilemma, showing discomfort in facing a formidable opponent.
