In the immemorial style of young men under pressure, they decided to lie down for a while and waste time

In the immemorial style of young men under pressure, they decided to lie down for a while and waste time

Michael Chabon, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author known for his intricate storytelling and vivid characters, has a knack for capturing the essence of young men under pressure. In many of his works, Chabon explores the complexities of masculinity, friendship, and the struggle to find one's place in the world. One recurring theme in his writing is the tendency of his male characters to cope with stress by avoiding it altogether, often by engaging in seemingly frivolous activities.

The phrase "In the immemorial style of young men under pressure, they decided to lie down for a while and waste time" perfectly encapsulates this aspect of Chabon's work. It speaks to the universal experience of feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to proceed, and the temptation to simply shut down and avoid dealing with the problem at hand. Chabon's characters often find themselves in situations where they are faced with difficult choices or challenges, and instead of confronting them head-on, they choose to procrastinate and distract themselves with trivial pursuits.

This tendency to procrastinate and waste time is not portrayed as a sign of weakness in Chabon's writing, but rather as a coping mechanism that allows his characters to temporarily escape the pressures of their lives. By lying down and wasting time, they are able to momentarily forget their troubles and find solace in the simple act of being idle. This act of self-care, however fleeting, is a way for Chabon's characters to recharge and gather the strength they need to face their problems with renewed vigor.

Chabon's writing is filled with richly drawn characters who are flawed and complex, yet ultimately relatable. His exploration of the human condition, particularly through the lens of young men under pressure, is both poignant and thought-provoking. The phrase "In the immemorial style of young men under pressure, they decided to lie down for a while and waste time" serves as a poignant reminder of the universal struggle to navigate the challenges of life, and the importance of self-care in times of stress.