In James Joyce's "Ulysses," the character Professor MacHugh reflects on loyalty to lost causes, suggesting that there is a certain nobility in striving for ideals despite knowing they may be unattainable. This loyalty highlights a struggle against conformity and mediocrity, emphasizing a deep-seated passion for creative thought and imaginative pursuits.

MacHugh's statement also critiques the notion of success, linking it to a decline in intellectual rigor and creativity. He implies that true fulfillment comes from the act of pursuing artistic and intellectual endeavors, rather than the often empty accolades associated with conventional success. This perspective invites readers to reconsider what it means to achieve and the value of perseverance in the face of uncertainty.