Attack Quote by Adrienne Monnier
“One attacks those who possess things that one does not possess. The attack is all the more savage because the one who attacks is destitute and the one who is attacked is well provided. The one who attacks always considers himself to be in the position of legitimate offense.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Reflections on Envy, 1930s literary journal
People who lack what others have often attack those who possess it, rationalizing their aggression as justified.
In simple terms: Envy drives hostile behavior toward the well‑off.
Key Takeaway
Recognize envy in yourself and avoid projecting it onto others.
Themes
psychology
social dynamics
envy
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
social commentary
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- workplace conflicts
- political rhetoric
Key Concepts
projection
justification
social inequality
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we justify harmful actions?
- How can societies mitigate envy‑driven aggression?
A Different Perspective
The attacker may truly believe they are defending a right, obscuring their motive.
![“I mean, it's not just the rappers, you know what i'm saying? People want to attack anybody that's a large figure, you know what I'm saying? They did it to [Michael] Jordan, they did it to [Mike] Tyson, they did it to Bill Cosby, you know what I'm saying? They're gonna' attack you if you on top.” quote by The Notorious B.I.G](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ac8/the-notorious-b-i-g-8034_bills_i-mean-it-s-not-just-the-rappers-you-kno_27728.jpg)
