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What a devil art thou, Poverty! How many desires - how…

“What a devil art thou, Poverty! How many desires - how many aspirations after goodness and truth - how many noble thoughts, loving wishes toward our fellows, beautiful imaginings thou hast crushed under thy heel, without remorse or pause!” quote by Walt Whitman
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“What a devil art thou, Poverty! How many desires - how many aspirations after goodness and truth - how many noble thoughts, loving wishes toward our fellows, beautiful imaginings thou hast crushed under thy heel, without remorse or pause!”

Walt Whitman

About This Quote

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

Poverty crushes noble aspirations and compassionate wishes, leaving humanity without remorse or pause.

In simple terms: Poverty destroys good intentions.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and address poverty’s impact.

Themes

poverty compassion humanity

Mood

somber reflective

Type

social philosophical

When to use this quote

  • community aid
  • policy reform
  • personal empathy
  • charitable action

Key Concepts

social injustice ethical decay psychological oppression

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does poverty affect your values?
  • What can you do to alleviate its effects?
A Different Perspective

Poverty may also motivate resilience and solidarity.

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