The quote from Anthony Burgess's "A Clockwork Orange," suggests a pessimistic view of progress and change, implying that human conditions are likely to decline rather than improve. It reflects a sense of despair about the future and hints at the inevitability of suffering within society.

This perspective invites readers to consider the implications of societal transformation and the potential consequences of the choices we make. As characters navigate their violent world, the quote serves as a stark reminder of the darkness that can arise in a quest for progress, making one ponder the nature of humanity and free will.