He could no more resist pricking the conceits, the hypocrisies and the flamboyant patriotism of those about him than a small boy can resist putting a pin into a balloon.

• 他禁不住要狠狠刺一下周围那些人的自负、伪善和神气十足的爱国心，就像一个孩子忍不住手痒要刺破一个气球似的。