Like most qualities, cuteness is delineated by what it isn't. Most people aren't cute at all, or if so they quickly outgrow their cuteness ... Elegance, grace, delicacy, beauty, and a lack of self-consciousness: a creature who knows he is cute soon isn't.
William S. Burroughs explores the concept of cuteness in his work, suggesting that it is defined more by its absence in most individuals. He implies that cuteness is not a lasting trait, as people often lose it as they mature. This highlights a certain ephemeral quality in the innocence and charm often associated with youth.
Furthermore, Burroughs contrasts cuteness with attributes like elegance and grace. He articulates that self-awareness can diminish cuteness; once a creature recognizes its own appeal, it loses that intrinsic charm. This perspective invites readers to reflect on the nature of cuteness and how it relates to confidence and the passage of time.
