Now look here, Smithers. They's two kind's of stealing…
““Now look here, Smithers. They's two kind's of stealing. They's the small kind, like what you does, and the big kind, like I does. Fo' de small stealing dey put you in jail soon or late. But fo' de big stealin' dey puts your picture in de paper and yo' statue in de Hall of Fame when you croak. If dey's one thing I learned in ten years on de Pullman cars, listenin' to de white quality talk, it's dat same fact. And when I gits a chance to use it . . . from stowaway to emperor in two years. Dat's goin' some!””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote contrasts petty crimes that lead to prison with grandiose thefts that bring fame, suggesting that notoriety can be a form of success despite moral cost.
In simple terms: Small crimes punish; big crimes glorify.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the difference between fame and integrity.
Themes
ethics
fame
crime
society
Mood
cynical
reflective
Type
cautionary
observational
When to use this quote
- career ambition
- political scandals
- media sensationalism
- personal reputation
Key Concepts
Moral relativism
celebrity culture
Questions to Reflect On
- What does it mean to be remembered for wrongdoing?
- Can notoriety ever be justified?
A Different Perspective
Fame can mask unethical actions and erode true achievement.