In "American Psycho," author Bret Easton Ellis explores the dark and disturbing mindset of the protagonist, Patrick Bateman. This quote illustrates his brutal and grotesque relationship with violence and consumption, where he attempts to dehumanize his victim to the point of treating her like an object to be used for his amusement. The frustration he expresses reveals the deep-seated issues within him, as he fails to transform the horror of his actions into something mundane.
The quote underscores the absurdity and horror of Bateman's character and serves as a critique of the materialistic and nihilistic culture of the 1980s. By smearing the girl's remains, Bateman turns a violent act into a form of grotesque artistry, highlighting his lack of empathy and emotional detachment. This scene encapsulates the novel's exploration of superficiality, identity, and moral decay within society.