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Cases Quote by Victor Hugo

“One can no more keep the mind from returning to an idea than the sea from returning to a shore. For a sailor, this is called the tide; in the case of the guilty it is called remorse. God stirs up the soul as well as the ocean.” quote by Victor Hugo
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“One can no more keep the mind from returning to an idea than the sea from returning to a shore. For a sailor, this is called the tide; in the case of the guilty it is called remorse. God stirs up the soul as well as the ocean.”

Victor Hugo

About This Quote

Source Poem: Les Misérables, 1862

The mind repeatedly returns to a thought like the tide, and for the guilty, that return is remorse, showing how conscience mirrors natural cycles.

In simple terms: Thoughts return like tides, especially guilt, revealing inner moral currents.

Key Takeaway

Acknowledge recurring thoughts as signals of conscience.

Themes

guilt remorse conscience nature spirituality

Mood

reflective somber

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • self‑reflection
  • confession
  • meditation
  • creative writing
  • therapy

Key Concepts

psychology ethics metaphor

Questions to Reflect On

  • What recurring thought is urging you toward change?
  • How can you transform remorse into constructive action?
A Different Perspective

Remorse can be overwhelming and hinder progress if not managed.

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