It seemed to be a necessary ritual that he should prepare himself for sleep by meditating under the solemnity of the night sky... a mysterious transaction between the infinity of the soul and the infinity of the universe.
Victor HugoRead
I dislike wealth and prosperity, especially that of other men.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses disdain for the wealth and success of others, hinting at a critique of materialism.
Victor Hugo's quote reflects a philosophical perspective that questions the value of wealth and prosperity, particularly when it highlights the disparity among individuals. It suggests a deeper consideration of moral values over material gain, implying that true fulfillment does not come from the accumulation of riches but perhaps from compassion and understanding towards those less fortunate. This disdain for others' wealth may stem from a sense of injustice or envy, prompting a discussion about societal norms and personal values.
Themes
WealthProsperityPhilosophyMaterialismValues
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion on materialism and happiness, this quote could be used to argue against the importance of wealth.
More from Victor Hugo
All quotes →When two mouths, made sacred by love, draw near to each other to create, it is impossible, that above that ineffable kiss there should not be a thrill in the immense mystery of the stars.
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At that moment of love, a moment when passion is absolutely silent under omnipotence of ecstasy, Marius, pure seraphic Marius, would have been more capable of visiting a woman of the streets than of raising Cosette’s dress above the ankle. Once on a moonlit night, Cosette stopped to pick up something from the ground, her dress loosened and revealed the swelling of her breasts. Marius averted his eyes.
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Thought is the work of the intellect, reverie is its self-indulgence. To substitute day-dreaming for thought is to confuse a poison with a source of nourishment.
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Taste is the common sense of genius.
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Forget not, never forget that you have promised me to use this silver to become an honest man.... Jean Valjean, my brother: you belong no longer to evil, but to good. It is your soul that I am buying for you. I withdraw it from dark thoughts and from the spirit of perdition, and I give it to God!
Victor HugoRead
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