Skip to content

Abundance Quote by Charles Lamb

“When I consider how little of a rarity children are -- that every street and blind alley swarms with them -- that the poorest people commonly have them in most abundance -- that there are few marriages that are not blest with at least one of these bargains -- how often they turn out ill, and…” quote by Charles Lamb
Download Open image
“When I consider how little of a rarity children are -- that every street and blind alley swarms with them -- that the poorest people commonly have them in most abundance -- that there are few marriages that are not blest with at least one of these bargains -- how often they turn out ill, and defeat the fond hopes of their parents, taking to vicious courses, which end in poverty, disgrace, the gallows, etc. -- I cannot for my life tell what cause for pride there can possibly be in having them.”

Charles Lamb

About This Quote

Source Essay: Essays of Elia, 1823

Lamb reflects on the paradox of children being both common and a source of sorrow, questioning any pride in having them.

In simple terms: Children are common yet often bring hardship, making pride in them questionable.

Key Takeaway

Recognize both joy and challenges of parenthood.

Themes

parenthood paradox pride hardship

Mood

reflective melancholic

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • raising children
  • social welfare
  • education policy
  • healthcare support

Key Concepts

socioeconomic disparity family dynamics child development

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance the joys and challenges of raising children?
  • What societal supports can reduce child-related hardship?
A Different Perspective

Children also bring love, growth, and societal continuity, not just hardship.

4.0 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Charles Lamb

Explore all 283 Charles Lamb quotes

More Abundance quotes

Browse all 1,251 Abundance quotes