My idle curiosity might lead to something more official, if the lieutenant feels his work is being hindered by an officious, small-minded, self-important bureaucrat. Not you, of course. I speak in general terms only.
The quote reflects the tension between creativity and bureaucracy in a professional setting. The speaker suggests that their curiosity could evolve into a more serious investigation if they perceive that the lieutenant's efforts are being obstructed by a petty, self-important official. This indicates a potential conflict where bureaucratic red tape could stifle important work.
The phrase "not you, of course" implies that the speaker acknowledges the listener's competence and suggests that their criticism is directed at a more generic type of bureaucrat. This highlights the frustration with institutional barriers while recognizing that not everyone embodies those negative traits.
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All the things you can talk about in anyone's work are the things that are least important.
Race of Cain, ascend to heaven, And cast God down upon the earth!
