It startled him even more when just after he was awarded the Galactic Institute's Prize for Extreme Cleverness he got lynched by a rampaging mob of respectable physicists who had finally realized that the one thing they really couldn't stand was a smartass.
The protagonist experiences a shocking turn of events after receiving the prestigious Galactic Institute's Prize for Extreme Cleverness. In a twist of irony, this recognition brings about severe backlash from a group of physicists. Instead of celebrating his achievement, they resort to violence, showcasing how intense their disdain is for arrogance and perceived superiority.
This incident highlights the theme of societal rejection of intellect when it crosses a threshold into perceived arrogance. The mob mentality of the physicists reveals a fear and contempt for those who flaunt their cleverness, ultimately emphasizing the complexity of human nature and the consequences of being labeled a "smartass."
