In this excerpt from Haruki Murakami's "A Wild Sheep Chase," the narrator reflects on personal faults that seem to multiply over time, akin to chickens multiplying within him. This metaphor illustrates the struggle with inherent flaws that seem to grow and become more burdensome as life progresses. The comparison of faults to chickens that continuously lay eggs captures the feeling of being trapped in a cycle of imperfections.
The narrator questions the quality of life while managing these growing flaws, revealing a deeper existential concern. Though he acknowledges that he manages to cope with these issues, he wonders about the overall significance of merely getting by. This contemplation invites readers to consider not just survival but the nature of living a fulfilling life amidst one's inherent shortcomings.