Whoever comes in the door is usually disappointing, but there is always a chance otherwise. And when a key hits the lock, all the heads come up like there's strings on them.
The quote reflects a sense of disillusionment and cautious hope regarding the arrival of new individuals in a shared space, likely a mental institution, as portrayed in Ken Kesey's "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest." The initial disappointment suggests that expectations are often low, yet there remains a flicker of optimism each time someone enters. This duality highlights the complexity of human interactions and the potential for change or new beginnings.
The imagery of heads lifting like puppets when a key turns in the lock conveys a moment of heightened anticipation. It signifies the arrival of someone who could disrupt the status quo or bring about a shift in dynamics. This response indicates a collective yearning for connection or transformation, emphasizing the underlying desire among the characters for something—or someone—unexpected to break the monotony of their situation.
