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 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.”
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.
Recognize both joy and challenges of parenthood.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- raising children
- social welfare
- education policy
- healthcare support
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance the joys and challenges of raising children?
- What societal supports can reduce child-related hardship?
Children also bring love, growth, and societal continuity, not just hardship.