The face of evil is always the face of total need. A dope fiend is a man in total need of dope. Beyond a certain frequency need knows absolutely no limit or control. In the words of total need: Wouldn't you? Yes you would. You would lie, cheat, inform on your friends, steal, do anything to satisfy total need. Because you would be in a state of total sickness, total possession, and not in a position to act in any other way. Dope fiends are sick people who cannot act other than they do. A rabid dog cannot choose but bite.
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The quote from William S. Burroughs' "Naked Lunch" highlights the severity of addiction and the concept of total need. It illustrates how a person suffering from addiction, like a drug addict, becomes consumed by their craving, losing all sense of morality and control. This state of total need can drive individuals to commit acts they would normally find reprehensible, showcasing the desperation that addiction brings.
Burroughs emphasizes that such individuals, akin to a rabid dog, are not in a position to make rational choices. Their actions, driven by an overwhelming compulsion, lead them to betray their values and relationships in a relentless pursuit of their addiction. The comparison underscores the idea that addiction transforms a person into a shadow of themselves, solely focused on satisfying their cravings, which can result in destructive behavior.
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