Beggars Quote by Peter Ackroyd
““...and when the Assembly arrived at Dusk I hasten'd into the Streets and made my self a child of Hazard. There was a Band of little Vagabonds who met by moon-light in the Moorfields, and for a time I wandred with them; most of them had been left as Orphans in the Plague and, out of the sight of Constable or Watch, would call out to Passers-by Lord Bless you give us a Penny or Bestow a half penny on us: I still hear their Voices in my Head when I walk abroad in a Croud, and some times I am seiz'd with Trembling to think I may be still one of them.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The House of the Spirits, Peter Ackroyd, 1995
The narrator reflects on past hardships and the lingering empathy for vulnerable children he once knew.
In simple terms: He feels guilt and compassion for orphaned street kids.
Key Takeaway
Remember and help those in need.
Themes
guilt
empathy
memory
social injustice
Mood
somber
reflective
Type
literary
emotional
When to use this quote
- charity work
- community outreach
- advocacy
- mental health support
Key Concepts
urban poverty
childhood trauma
historical memory
Questions to Reflect On
- How do past experiences shape present compassion?
- What actions can we take to aid street children?
A Different Perspective
The narrative may romanticize poverty, overlooking systemic causes.
