The quote from Sebastian Faulks' "Engleby," "The more I heard, the less I knew," captures a profound sense of confusion and the complexities of understanding. It suggests that as one is exposed to more information or experiences, the clarity and certainty one seeks can often diminish. This reflects the challenges of navigating knowledge in a world filled with conflicting perspectives and noise.
Engleby explores themes of perception and reality through its protagonist, who grapples with his own understanding of life and those around him. The quote emphasizes how the pursuit of knowledge can be paradoxical, leading one to realize that certainty is often elusive. In essence, the more we engage with the world, the more questions arise, leaving us in a state of uncertainty.