Patience's design flaw became obvious for the first time in my life: the outcome is decided not during the course of play but when the cards are shuffled, before the game even begins. How pointless is that?

Summary

This quote highlights the frustration of the speaker towards the game of patience (also known as solitaire). The metaphorical design flaw refers to the realization that the outcome of the game is predetermined during the card shuffling process, making the actual gameplay seem pointless and devoid of agency or influence. The quote may also serve as a broader commentary on life, suggesting that certain situations or outcomes are predetermined and beyond one's control, questioning the significance of one's efforts and actions.