Every man has inside himself a parasitic being who is acting not at all to his advantage

Every man has inside himself a parasitic being who is acting not at all to his advantage

William S. Burroughs, the iconic Beat Generation writer, was known for his dark and often disturbing exploration of the human psyche. In his work, he delved into the depths of the human mind, exposing the darker aspects of our nature that we often try to ignore or suppress. One of the recurring themes in Burroughs' writing is the idea that every man has inside himself a parasitic being who is acting not at all to his advantage.

Burroughs believed that this parasitic being, which he often referred to as the "control system" or the "virus," was a destructive force that influenced our thoughts, actions, and desires. This parasitic being was not a physical entity, but rather a metaphor for the negative impulses and self-destructive tendencies that exist within all of us.

According to Burroughs, this parasitic being feeds off of our fears, insecurities, and desires, manipulating us into making choices that are not in our best interest. It thrives on chaos, confusion, and conflict, leading us down a path of self-destruction and despair.

Burroughs' own struggles with addiction and mental illness gave him a unique perspective on the human condition. He understood the power of the parasitic being all too well, as he battled his own inner demons throughout his life. His writing often reflected his own personal struggles, as he grappled with the destructive forces that lurked within his own mind.