"Tequila. Straight. There's a real polite drink. You keep drinking until you finally take one more and it just won't go down. Then you know you've reached your limit"
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This quote by Lee Marvin provides a colorful yet cautionary description of consuming tequila, often perceived as a powerful and unforgiving spirit. The words show the star's rugged persona and humor, portraying tequila as "a real courteous beverage". The paradox in calling tequila respectful recommends that while it might go down smoothly, its effects are anything however mild.
The very first part of the quote sets the scene with the simplicity of ordering "Tequila. Straight". This indicates an unpretentious, simple technique to drinking, lacking mixers or decorations, which lines up with Marvin's screen personality of a no-nonsense, tough guy. The option of tequila, a distilled alcohol associated with vibrant tastes and strong effects, complements this image, additional reinforcing its no-frills nature.
As the quote progresses, Marvin describes the act of drinking tequila as a recurring cycle: "You keep consuming till you finally take one more and it simply will not go down". This recommends an ultimate culmination of consuming alcohol, marked by the body's physical rejection to ingest more. The minute when it "simply won't go down" indicates the drinker's limitation, a poignant metaphor for understanding one's borders. It implies that tequila enforces its own rules, exposing its strength just when limitations are gone beyond.
Marvin's amusing framing of this experience underscores the unpredictable relationship people typically have with alcohol. Tequila makes a reputation for capturing drinkers off guard, producing abrupt realizations of overindulgence. His declaration could be analyzed as both a fond recollection and a word of caution, highlighting moderation.
Ultimately, Lee Marvin records the essence of tequila with a blend of humor and wisdom. His quote advises us that while tequila might appear accommodating, it requires respect and self-awareness. It's a clear commentary on the stealthily smooth journey of consuming this renowned spirit, which eventually ends with an undeniable, often severe tip of one's limitations.
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