Family Quote by Scott Lynch
““I only steal because my dear old family needs the money to live!" Locke Lamora made this proclamation with his wine glass held high; he and the other Gentleman Bastards were seated at the old witchwood table. . . . The others began to jeer. "Liar!" they chorused "I only steal because this wicked world won't let me work an honest trade!" Calo cried, hoisting his own glass. "LIAR!" "I only steal," said Jean, "because I've temporarily fallen in with bad company." "LIAR!" At last the ritual came to Bug; the boy raised his glass a bit shakily and yelled, "I only steal because it's heaps of fucking fun!" "BASTARD!””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Lies of Locke Lamora, 2006
Characters justify theft by blaming societal constraints, highlighting moral rationalizations and desperation.
In simple terms: They claim stealing is due to lack of honest work opportunities.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how circumstances shape moral choices.
Themes
ethics
survival
social critique
Mood
serious
reflective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- crime
- poverty
- peer pressure
- personal justification
Key Concepts
moral rationalization
economic inequality
Questions to Reflect On
- What pressures lead people to rationalize wrongdoing?
- Can systemic change reduce such justifications?
A Different Perspective
The justification may ignore personal responsibility.
![“But what world says that [I'm wicked]? It can only be the next world. This world and I are on excellent terms.” quote by Oscar Wilde](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bb6/oscar-wilde-16_excellent_but-what-world-says-that-i-m-wicked-it-c_587978.jpg)
