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.