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I smil'd to my self at the sight of this money, O drug!…

“I smil'd to my self at the sight of this money, O drug! said I aloud, what art thou good for? Thou art not worth to me, no not the taking off of the ground, one of those knives is worth all this heap, I have no manner of use for thee, e'en remain where thou art, and go to the bottom as a creature…” quote by Daniel Defoe
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“I smil'd to my self at the sight of this money, O drug! said I aloud, what art thou good for? Thou art not worth to me, no not the taking off of the ground, one of those knives is worth all this heap, I have no manner of use for thee, e'en remain where thou art, and go to the bottom as a creature whose life is not worth saving. However, upon second thoughts, I took it away...”

Daniel Defoe

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The narrator despises money, seeing it as useless, yet later reconsiders its value.

In simple terms: Money seems worthless but may be useful.

Key Takeaway

Reevaluate assumptions about wealth.

Themes

materialism value reflection

Mood

contemplative critical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • budgeting
  • philanthropy
  • personal finance

Key Concepts

economic theory human desire

Questions to Reflect On

  • What gives money meaning?
  • When is wealth truly valuable?
A Different Perspective

Money’s utility varies with perspective and need.

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