One can die but once. Dim died before he was born.
In Anthony Burgess's novel "A Clockwork Orange," the quote "One can die but once. Dim died before he was born" reflects the idea of a lost identity and the struggle for self-actualization. The character Dim symbolizes individuals who, despite being alive, do not truly engage with life or their potential. This notion suggests that a person who fails to connect with their humanity is essentially living a diminished existence, akin to being 'dead' before their life has truly started.
This passage invites readers to contemplate the essence of living fully and the implications of living in a disengaged manner. It emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and the need to embrace one’s identity, as failing to do so may lead to a metaphorical death, where one never experiences the richness of life or personal development. Through this reflection, Burgess encourages examination of the boundaries between existence and true living.