Most criminals are stupid. They creep $500,000 homes in the Garden District, load up two dozen bottles of gin, whiskey, vermouth, and Collins mix in a $2,000 Irish linen tablecloth and later drink the booze and throw the tablecloth away.
The quote reflects a cynical view of criminals, suggesting that many lack intelligence, as evidenced by their poor decision-making. It highlights a scenario in which thieves, despite targeting high-end homes, make foolish choices by stealing luxury items like alcohol and then discarding the fabric they used to carry them away instead of using it for any purposeful gain. This behavior showcases a lack of foresight and practicality.
In essence, the text critiques the mentality of those who engage in crime, indicating that their actions often betray a shortsightedness and an inability to recognize the implications of their behavior. The author, James Lee Burke, uses this example to emphasize that even within the criminal world, there is a level of absurdity and foolishness that undermines any potential cleverness in their deeds.