"Outside every fat man there was an even fatter man trying to close in"

This quote by Kingsley Amis is a commentary on the human condition and the tendency of individuals to compare themselves to others. It recommends that no matter how effective or content a person may be, there is constantly another person who is doing much better. This contrast can lead to feelings of inadequacy and insecurity, as the "fatter guy" is always attempting to close in. The quote implies that no matter how much a person has actually achieved, there is constantly someone else who is more successful. It also recommends that the pursuit of success is a relentless cycle, as the "fatter guy" is constantly trying to close in. This quote is a pointer that it is essential to be content with what one has and to not be too concentrated on comparing oneself to others.