Most Americans are born drunk, and really require a little wine or beer to sober them. They have a sort of permanent intoxication from within, a sort of invisible champagne. Americans do not need to drink to inspire them to do anything, though they do sometimes, I think, need a little for the deeper and more delicate purpose of teaching them how to do nothing.

Summary

This quote seems to suggest that Americans, metaphorically speaking, live in a state of perpetual excitement or restlessness. The idea of being "born drunk" implies an innate enthusiasm or high-energy nature. The mention of wine or beer to "sober them" suggests that indulging in a small amount of alcohol helps bring them back down to a more grounded state. Furthermore, the quote proposes that Americans don't need external motivation to be productive, but occasionally could benefit from non-doing, perhaps to find balance or tranquility.

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