In everyday language, this quote suggests that someone has multiple bad habits but finds an excessive sense of restraint or limitation as one particularly significant issue. It implies that while this person recognizes they have various vices, their inclination towards extreme moderation stands out as a noteworthy and perhaps problematic trait.
Beyond its surface interpretation, the quote invites reflection on how one's approach to balance can itself become unbalanced. The speaker acknowledges having several flaws but singles out an overzealous adherence to moderation as particularly troubling. This suggests that in striving for balance and restraint, it’s possible to go too far and create a new problem where there was none before. It highlights the irony of being overly cautious or conservative in one's behavior while acknowledging other, possibly more apparent vices.
E. L. Doctorow (1931-2015) was an American novelist celebrated for his richly textured narratives that often explore themes of history and politics through a blend of realism and imagination. His work includes novels such as "Ragtime" and "The Book of Daniel," both acclaimed for their insightful commentary on American society and culture. Through his writings, Doctorow offered profound insights into the human condition and the complexities of living in a rapidly changing world.
