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In all lands, sailors form a race apart. They profess a…

“In all lands, sailors form a race apart. They profess a congenital contempt for landlubbers. As for the tradesman, he understands nothing of sailors nor cares a fig about them. He is content to rob them if he can.” quote by Honore de Balzac
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“In all lands, sailors form a race apart. They profess a congenital contempt for landlubbers. As for the tradesman, he understands nothing of sailors nor cares a fig about them. He is content to rob them if he can.”

Honore de Balzac

About This Quote

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

Sailors see themselves as a distinct, superior group, while tradesmen are indifferent and exploitative.

In simple terms: Class divide

Key Takeaway

Group identity fuels contempt

Themes

class identity elitism conflict social hierarchy

Mood

critical observational

Type

social commentary observation

When to use this quote

  • maritime communities
  • labor disputes
  • social stratification

Key Concepts

subculture exploitation

Practical Applications

  • sociological analysis
  • team‑building workshops

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do groups develop contempt for outsiders?
  • What mechanisms break down such divisions?
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