How would you interpret this statement “…what is this black swan event what is it that lurks and looms, what is it that slouches toward bethlehem to be born now”?
This statement appears to be metaphorical and likely references the concept of a “black swan event,” which signifies an unpredictable event with severe consequences, often with retrospective predictability. The phrase “what is it that lurks and looms” suggests a sense of foreboding or anticipation regarding such an event. “What is it that slouches toward Bethlehem to be born now” echoes a line from W.B. Yeats’ poem “The Second Coming,” evoking a feeling of impending change or upheaval.

Interpreted together, the statement seems to express a contemplation of the unknown and potentially disruptive events on the horizon, invoking imagery of uncertainty, anticipation, and perhaps even a sense of dread or inevitability. It could imply a questioning of what significant and unforeseen developments might be on the verge of occurring.
it is this line in particular, I gave you the rest for context – what is it that slouches toward bethlehem to be born now
The line “what is it that slouches toward Bethlehem to be born now” is a reference to a famous line from W.B. Yeats’ poem “The Second Coming.” In Yeats’ poem, the line reads: “And what rough beast, its hour come round at last, / Slouches towards Bethlehem to be born?” This line is often interpreted as a metaphorical representation of chaos, upheaval, or some ominous force approaching.

In the context of the statement you provided, “what is it that slouches toward Bethlehem to be born now” likely invokes a sense of impending change, uncertainty, or potentially catastrophic events. It suggests that something significant and potentially disruptive is on the horizon, akin to the arrival of an unpredictable and possibly dangerous force. The mention of Bethlehem adds a layer of symbolism, as Bethlehem is traditionally associated with birth and the biblical story of Jesus’ birth, thus implying that whatever is approaching may have profound implications or consequences.
It seems that the use of terms that identify that person born in bethlehem is a form of beast or can be slouched?
You’re correct in pointing out that the term “beast” in Yeats’ poem can be interpreted metaphorically rather than literally. In “The Second Coming,” the “rough beast” represents a force of chaos or destruction, rather than a literal animal. Yeats uses symbolic language to convey the idea of a powerful and malevolent entity or force approaching, with the reference to Bethlehem adding a layer of significance.

In the context of the statement you provided, the use of the term “slouches toward Bethlehem” likely draws upon Yeats’ imagery to evoke a sense of foreboding or impending upheaval. It suggests that something ominous and potentially disruptive is on the verge of emerging, akin to the imagery of a powerful force slowly advancing towards a significant location. The reference to Bethlehem could symbolize the birth or emergence of this force, rather than directly associating it with the biblical figure born there.