lover of men and beast alike

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Hello,I've been trying to figure out what might be the meaning of "lover of man and beast alike". Could you help me, please. Thanks in advance."Just five months ago, I had $150 in my pocket and big plans in my head.In those days, I was Arturo Bandini, lover of man and beast alike."

Philip · Accepted Answer

AnonymousHello,
I've been trying to figure out what might be the meaning of "lover of man and beast alike". Could you help me, please. Thanks in advance.

"Just five months ago, I had $150 in my pocket and big plans in my head.
In those days, I was Arturo Bandini, lover of man and beast alike."

Besides the obvious, loving people and animals, I think it's a figurative way of saying he was very happy with his life.

Anonymous · Answer

Thank you for your reply. I might use it as per your suggestion.

Anonymous · Answer

Hi, I know that this line comes from the movie "Ask the Dust". This line was read at least twice in the movie and have since been etched in my mind till today.

I remember that Arturo was a struggling writer in post-Depression L.A. So, I'm assuming that $150 is a **** lotta' money in those days. Although I didn't read the book, I think Arturo (as portrayed by Collin Farrell) was a neurotic character who took pride in being a writer. He also couldn't take 'no' for an answer from Camilla (portrayed by Salma Hayek).

So, I think Arturo was used to having admiration from people for his works or social standing. Probably they may've had been earnest to please or impress him. Hence, once upon a time in his heyday, Arturo was "a lover of men and beasts alike".

...too literal? Just my take

lover of men and beast alike

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