In Victor Hugo's "Les Miserables," the narrative critiques the ideas presented by Communism and agrarian laws aimed at addressing economic inequality. The author argues that these approaches mistakenly believe they can resolve the challenges of wealth distribution, failing to recognize that their methods ultimately stifle productivity and initiative. By advocating for equal partition, they eliminate competition and motivation, which are essential for effective labor and progress.

Hugo emphasizes that simply dividing wealth is not an effective solution; rather, it leads to a decline in overall production and generates a harmful impact on society. The metaphor of a butcher suggests that such division destroys the essence of wealth instead of nurturing it, conveying the message that true solutions require more than just redistribution. This points to a deeper understanding of economic and social dynamics that cannot be overlooked in the pursuit of fairness.