In Denis Johnson's work "The Largesse of the Sea Maiden," the narrator reflects on the complexities of consuming alcohol. He expresses a desire to enjoy drinking without the adverse effects of intoxication. This perspective highlights the tension between the enjoyment of liquor and the consequences of drunkenness.

The quote encapsulates a longing for a balanced relationship with alcohol, where one could indulge without the constant state of inebriation. It suggests that the narrator finds value in drinking but grapples with the reality that it often leads to losing control. This duality reveals deeper themes of desire and moderation in Johnson's exploration of human experience.