I'd even be willing to argue that Smith was subverting the subversive. In the end, a life of drinking and sex and general carousing without limitation staled, to the point that existence as statues was seen as preferable. Maybe Smith was advocating a life with purpose instead of the mindless pursuit of pleasure? Hunter Hawk was arguably happier and more fulfilled while pursuing his end, rather than after he succeeded with his invention. Otherwise, I'd say that it's the ultimate in nihilism, where even the gods find existence meaningless.
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