We were just talking about you," Jessamine said as Tessa…
““We were just talking about you," Jessamine said as Tessa found a seat. She pushed a sliver toast rack across the table towards Tessa. "Toast?" Tessa, picking up her fork, looked around the table anxiously. "What about me?" "What to do with you, of course Downworlders can't live in the Institute forever," said Will. "I say we sell her to the Gypsies on Hampstead Heath," He added, turning to Charlotte. "I hear they purchase spare women as well as horses." "Will, stop it." Charlotte glanced up from her breakfast. "That's ridiculous." Will leaned back in his chair. "You're right. They'd never buy her. Too scrawny.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Characters discuss using a person as a commodity, reflecting power dynamics and dehumanization.
In simple terms: People are treated as objects for profit.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and resist dehumanizing attitudes.
Themes
power
exploitation
humanity
morality
gender
Mood
somber
urgent
reflective
Type
literary
social
ethical
When to use this quote
- workplace
- human trafficking
- personal relationships
- institutional oppression
- legal systems
Key Concepts
ethics
objectification
social hierarchy
Questions to Reflect On
- What structures enable treating people as commodities?
- How can we uphold dignity in power imbalances?
A Different Perspective
Viewing people as goods erodes empathy and justice.