Question

How does Prufrock's intellect affect his ability to interact with others? Does his intelligence help or hinder him?

Answer 1

Prufrock has all the normal desires of a young man, but he is ultimately incapable of doing anything. He is compelled to think everything through, but it doesn't help him at all. The thoughts just can't transform into actions, in part because he is afraid, in part because he lacks confidence, and in part because he can see no sense in all of it. He doesn't "dare disturb the universe" by asking "an overwhelming question". He is only capable of entering trivial, petty interactions with the world obsessed with material, "the cups, the marmalade, the tea, / Among the porcelain, among some talk of you and me". This matter renders Prufrock's existence futile, and he is all too aware of it. His intelligence doesn't help him at all, because it locks him into a self-indulgent, passive world, rendering him aware of all the impossibilities.