The phrase "I am crepuscular" suggests that the speaker identifies as someone who is most active during twilight hours—those periods at dawn and dusk when daylight transitions into darkness. Crepuscular creatures, such as certain animals and some humans, exhibit peak activity during these dimly lit times rather than in broad daylight or deep night.
By describing himself this way, Christopher Hitchens might be alluding to his lifestyle and personal habits, indicating a preference for working or being most productive during the early morning or late evening hours. However, the term also carries philosophical connotations, possibly reflecting his role as an intellectual observer of societal shifts and cultural trends that occur in transitional moments. This metaphor could extend beyond literal time periods to encompass critical perspectives and reflective thought processes that Hitchens is known for, highlighting the twilight between opposing views or ideological conflicts.
Christopher Hitchens was a renowned British-American author, journalist, and literary critic with a prolific career spanning several decades. Known for his sharp wit and articulate writing style, Hitchens authored numerous books on politics, philosophy, religion, and literature. He was particularly famous for his controversial stances and debates on various topics, earning him both admiration and criticism from readers across the globe.