Skip to content

Art Quote by Daniel Defoe

“I smil'd to my self at the sight of this money, O drug! said I aloud, what art thou good for? Thou art not worth to me, no not the taking off of the ground, one of those knives is worth all this heap, I have no manner of use for thee, e'en remain where thou art, and go to the bottom as a creature…” quote by Daniel Defoe
Download Open image
“I smil'd to my self at the sight of this money, O drug! said I aloud, what art thou good for? Thou art not worth to me, no not the taking off of the ground, one of those knives is worth all this heap, I have no manner of use for thee, e'en remain where thou art, and go to the bottom as a creature whose life is not worth saving. However, upon second thoughts, I took it away...”

Daniel Defoe

About This Quote

Source Novel: Robinson Crusoe, 1719

The narrator despises money, seeing it as useless, yet later reconsiders its value.

In simple terms: Money seems worthless but may be useful.

Key Takeaway

Reevaluate assumptions about wealth.

Themes

materialism value reflection

Mood

contemplative critical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • budgeting
  • philanthropy
  • personal finance

Key Concepts

economic theory human desire

Questions to Reflect On

  • What gives money meaning?
  • When is wealth truly valuable?
A Different Perspective

Money’s utility varies with perspective and need.

3.0 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Daniel Defoe

Explore all 173 Daniel Defoe quotes

More Art quotes

Browse all 48,643 Art quotes