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To kill a relative of whom you are tired is something. But…

“To kill a relative of whom you are tired is something. But to inherit his property afterwards, that is genuine pleasure.” quote by Honore de Balzac
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“To kill a relative of whom you are tired is something. But to inherit his property afterwards, that is genuine pleasure.”

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.

The speaker finds more satisfaction in gaining wealth after a relative's death than in the act of killing them.

In simple terms: Inheriting property feels more rewarding than the killing itself.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the moral emptiness of material gain.

Themes

greed family morality inheritance power

Mood

cynical dark reflective

Type

aphilosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • estate planning
  • family disputes
  • legal inheritance
  • ethical debates

Key Concepts

utilitarianism ethical relativism psychology of desire

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does true pleasure mean beyond material gain?
  • How does this view affect family relationships?
A Different Perspective

The quote ignores the emotional and ethical costs of loss.

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