but then, you know, they have the recollection of very…
““but then, you know, they have the recollection of very recent suffering fresh upon them. What they may become, when that fades away, is a problem that neither you nor I can solve. However, my dear Sir,’ added Perker, laying his hand on Mr. Pickwick’s shoulder, ‘your object is equally honourable, whatever the result is. Whether that species of benevolence which is so very cautious and long-sighted that it is seldom exercised at all, lest its owner should be imposed upon, and so wounded in his self-love, be real charity or a worldly counterfeit, I leave to wiser heads than mine to determine. But if those two fellows were to commit a burglary to-morrow, my opinion of this action would be equally high.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage reflects on the uncertainty of future character after suffering fades, questioning whether cautious benevolence is genuine or self‑preserving, and suggests moral judgment remains constant despite outcomes.
In simple terms: People change after pain, but true kindness is hard to tell.
Key Takeaway
Judge actions, not just outcomes.
Themes
morality
human nature
character
suffering
benevolence
Mood
thoughtful
reflective
Type
philosophical
literary
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- ethical decision making
- relationship counseling
- rehabilitation programs
Key Concepts
philosophical
literary
psychological
Questions to Reflect On
- What defines genuine charity?
- How do we assess character after hardship?
A Different Perspective
Human motives are complex; appearances can be misleading.