People sometimes tell me that they prefer barbarism to civilization. I doubt if they have given it a long enough trial. Like the people of Alexandria, they are bored by civilization; but all the evidence suggests that the boredom of barbarism is infinitely greater.

Summary

In this quote, the speaker expresses their skepticism towards those who claim to prefer barbarism over civilization. They believe that such individuals have not truly experienced barbarism for an extended period of time. Comparing it to the people of Alexandria, who grew bored of civilization, the speaker argues that the boredom experienced in a state of barbarism is much more profound. The quote implies that while civilization may have its own drawbacks, it ultimately offers a greater level of stimulation and fulfillment in comparison to a primitive and uncivilized existence.

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