Marriage Quote by Elizabeth Gaskell
““makes me more than sad, it makes my heart burn within me, to see that folk can make a jest of striving men; of chaps who comed to ask for a bit o’ fire for th’ old granny, as shivers i’ th’ cold; for a bit o’ bedding, and some warm clothing to the poor wife who lies in labour on th’ damp flags; and for victuals for the childer, whose little voices are getting too faint and weak to cry aloud wi’ hunger. For, brothers, is not them the things we ask for when we ask for more wage? We donnot want dainties, we want bellyfuls; we donnot want gimcrack coats and waistcoats, we want warm clothes; and so that we get ‘em, we’d not quarrel wi’ what they’re made on. We donnot want their grand houses, we want a roof to cover us from the rain, and the snow, and the storm; ay, and not alone to cover us, but the helpless ones that cling to us in the keen wind, and ask us with their eyes why we brought ’em into th’ world to suffer?” He””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Mary Barton by Elizabeth Gaskell, 1848
The passage condemns societal neglect of the poor, urging empathy for basic human needs over material excess.
In simple terms: People need basic care, not luxury.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize essential support for the vulnerable.
Themes
poverty
empathy
social justice
Mood
compassionate
urgent
reflective
Type
social
ethical
humanitarian
When to use this quote
- providing shelter
- feeding the hungry
- supporting laborers
- advocating for fair wages
- volunteering for the needy
Key Concepts
human dignity
economic inequality
community responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we address root causes of poverty?
- What responsibilities do societies have to the vulnerable?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook systemic causes of poverty, focusing on charity alone.
![“I don't like being away from home. That's one reason why I don't work as much as I used to [when I started my career], because so many things are on the road. I just don't want to be away from my husband, my dogs and my home. I don't sing that much any more because that also takes you on the road.” quote by Jane Powell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/07c/jane-powell-36243_away_i-don-t-like-being-away-from-home-that-s_278.jpg)
