In George Eliot's "Middlemarch," the author explores the idea that our perception of expenditures is deeply influenced by our personal experiences and emotions. Just like physical imperfections or mistakes, the way we view spending transforms when we consider our unique personality and feelings. This subjective lens reveals a significant disparity in how we experience and evaluate expenses compared to others, emphasizing our individual perspectives.

The quote suggests that our personal sensations shape our understanding of financial choices, illustrating that expenditure goes beyond mere numbers. By connecting our values and emotions to our spending habits, we create a more complex relationship with money that varies greatly from one person to another. This reflection on individuality highlights the significance of self-awareness in financial decision-making.