Quote by Cyril Connolly
The English masses are lovable: they are kind, decent, tolerant, practical and not stupid. The tragedy is that they are too many of them, and that they are aimless, having outgrown the servile functions for which they were encouraged to multiply. One day these huge crowds will have to seize power because there will be nothing else for them to do, and yet they neither demand power nor are ready to make use of it; they will learn only to be bored in a new way.
Summary
This quote highlights the author's view of the English masses as inherently good-natured and reasonable individuals. However, it also highlights the tragedy of their aimlessness. They have grown in numbers and surpassed their traditional roles, yet they lack direction and purpose. The quote suggests that, eventually, these masses will have no choice but to seek power, despite not actively desiring it or being prepared for it. The author suggests that this may lead to a state of apathy and boredom, as the masses struggle to find meaning in their newfound power.