In Victor Hugo's "Les Misérables," the notion of success is intricately linked to power and superiority. The quote suggests that for many people, achieving success often equates to gaining dominance over others. This perception highlights a societal trend where individuals measure their worth by their ability to rise above their peers, often leading to a competitive and cutthroat mindset.

Ultimately, the pursuit of success can overshadow personal values and integrity, as individuals may prioritize their ambitions over empathy and community. Hugo's commentary encourages readers to reflect on their definitions of success and the inherent morality within their pursuits, suggesting that true achievement shouldn’t merely be about elevation but also about uplifting others.