Skip to content

Misery Quote by Victor Hugo

“On the contrary, as there is always more misery among the lower classes than there is humanity in the higher, everything was given away, so to speak, before it was received, like water on thirsty soil; it was well that money came to him, for he never kept any, and besides he robbed himself.” quote by Victor Hugo
Download Open image
““On the contrary, as there is always more misery among the lower classes than there is humanity in the higher, everything was given away, so to speak, before it was received, like water on thirsty soil; it was well that money came to him, for he never kept any, and besides he robbed himself.””

Victor Hugo

About This Quote

Source Novel: Les Misérables, 1862

The poor suffer more misery, yet the wealthy give away what they have, like water to thirsty soil, and they never keep anything for themselves.

In simple terms: The rich give away what they have, yet they keep nothing.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the paradox of generosity and poverty.

Themes

poverty wealth generosity

Mood

melancholic thoughtful

Type

social philosophical

When to use this quote

  • charitable work
  • policy reform
  • community aid

Key Concepts

social inequality philanthropy human nature

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do the wealthy give away what they have?
  • How does generosity affect social dynamics?
A Different Perspective

May oversimplify complex economics.

2.3 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by Victor Hugo

Explore all 2,181 Victor Hugo quotes

More Misery quotes

Browse all 2,835 Misery quotes