why the lucky stiff
In The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand, the phrase “Why, the lucky stiff!” is used by the character Gail Wynand (a powerful newspaper mogul who embodies the conflict between individualism and societal pressure). This expression reflects a moment of irony and disdain, typically directed at someone who is perceived as undeserving of their success or happiness.
The context revolves around Wynand’s complex feelings about success, integrity, and the nature of happiness in a world he views as largely corrupt. The phrase captures Wynand’s ambivalence toward the characters around him, emphasizing the disparity between true merit and superficial fortune. It underscores Rand’s themes of individualism and the tension between personal values and societal norms.