They were a wonderful set of burglars, the people who were…
“They were a wonderful set of burglars, the people who were running San Francisco when I first came to town in 1923, wonderful because, if they were stealing, they were doing it with class and style.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Describes early 20th‑century thieves as stylish, implying charm can soften wrongdoing.
In simple terms: Even criminals can be charismatic.
Recognize charm doesn’t excuse crime.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- historical tours
- crime fiction writing
- ethical debates
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Do we excuse bad behavior because of style?
- How does charisma affect moral judgment?
Romanticizing crime can overlook victims.