In "A Clockwork Orange," the narrative suggests that individuals are limited by societal norms and expectations. The protagonist reflects on how one's potential for goodness is confined within the boundaries set by society, likening a person to a small machine whose actions must align with accepted behavior. This metaphor highlights the struggle between personal freedom and social conditioning.

Furthermore, the text explores the idea of marginal conditioning, indicating that once-enjoyable aspects of life, such as music, sexuality, literature, and art, have become sources of pain rather than pleasure. This shift emphasizes the detrimental effects of societal constraints on personal fulfillment and joy, portraying a bleak outlook on how cultural influences can suppress genuine human experiences.