Muzzle a dog and he will bark out of the other end

Muzzle a dog and he will bark out of the other end

The quote "Muzzle a dog and he will bark out of the other end" is a profound statement that can be applied to various aspects of life, including the works of the renowned author Malcolm Lowry. Lowry, best known for his novel "Under the Volcano," was a master at exploring the complexities of human nature and the struggles of the human condition. His writing often delved into the darker aspects of existence, portraying characters who were haunted by their pasts and consumed by their own demons.

In the context of Lowry's work, the quote can be interpreted as a metaphor for the futility of trying to suppress one's inner turmoil or emotions. Just as a dog will find a way to express itself even when muzzled, Lowry's characters cannot be silenced or contained. They are driven by their inner conflicts and desires, and no amount of external control can prevent them from expressing themselves in some form.

Lowry's characters often grapple with feelings of alienation, despair, and self-destruction. They are haunted by their past mistakes and haunted by their own inner demons. In "Under the Volcano," the protagonist Geoffrey Firmin is a prime example of this tortured soul. Despite his attempts to drown his sorrows in alcohol and numb his pain, he is unable to escape the darkness within him. His inner turmoil eventually consumes him, leading to his tragic demise.

The quote can also be seen as a commentary on the human tendency to resist oppression and control. Just as a dog will bark out of the other end when muzzled, humans will find a way to rebel against any form of suppression or restriction. Lowry's characters often rebel against societal norms and expectations, refusing to conform to the constraints placed upon them. They are driven by a desire for freedom and self-expression, even if it means facing the consequences of their actions.