The phrase you're referring to is a famous quote from Samuel Johnson: "He who makes a beast of himself gets rid of the pain of being a man."

Explanation:

• Meaning: This quote suggests that when someone behaves in a wild, reckless, or uncivilized way ("makes a beast of himself"), it can be a way to escape or numb the emotional or psychological pain that comes with being human.
• Context: It reflects on human nature, suffering, and the sometimes self-destructive ways people cope with their struggles.

If you'd like, I can provide more context about Samuel Johnson or discuss the quote's relevance in literature and philosophy!