So you intend to spend the remainder of your life whoring, drinking, wagering, and being as outrageous as you can manage? Bram shook himself. He made it a point to be serious as little as possible, and neither did he want to argue with two newly married men about the merits of being leg-shackled. Please Phin, he said aloud. I would never think so small. You know my ultimate goal is to lower the standards of morality enough that everything I do becomes acceptable.
This excerpt presents a fascinating exploration of the characters' attitudes towards morality and societal expectations. The speaker's jest about a life filled with reckless indulgence—whoring, drinking, wagering—serves as a way to challenge conventional moral standards. Bram's reaction, making light of the situation and dismissing seriousness, reveals a character inclined towards humor and perhaps cynicism when confronting societal judgments. The ironic turn where he claims his ultimate goal is to lower the standards of morality to make his actions acceptable underscores a conscious rebellion against rigid moral structures. It calls into question the fluidity of morality and how societal norms can be manipulated or expanded. There's also a tone of self-awareness and perhaps irony; Bram seems to enjoy pushing boundaries not just for personal pleasure but as a critique or commentary on social norms. This reflection encourages us to consider our own perceptions of morality—how much of it is truly absolute, and how much is shaped by societal influence. The dialogue between characters highlights contrasting perspectives: one rooted in defiance, the other in societal expectations. The sharply witty tone suggests a layered commentary on human nature's complexity, including traits of mischief, introspection, and a desire for liberation from moral constraints. Ultimately, the quote invites readers to contemplate the social dynamic of morality and whether decadence is inherently wrong or simply a means to provoke thought or change.