The quote from Tobias Wolff's "The Night in Question" reflects a sense of skepticism about the originality of human desires. It suggests that many of our aspirations and wants are common and unremarkable, akin to clichés that can be easily worn and shared by everyone. This uniformity implies a lack of uniqueness in what people truly want, leading to the question of whether genuine originality in desire is still achievable.
This sentiment evokes a deeper examination of individuality in a world where desires may be influenced by societal norms and trends. It raises concerns about the authenticity of personal motivations and whether they arise from true self-expression or merely reflect widely-held expectations. Wolff's observation invites readers to reflect on their own desires, encouraging an exploration of what it truly means to want something authentically.