In Victor Hugo's "Les Miserables," the character is depicted as someone who prefers solitude during meal times. He chooses to dine alone rather than in the company of others, highlighting a sense of isolation or introspection in his life. This habit suggests that he seeks comfort in literature, finding solace and perhaps a distraction from his surroundings.

The open book he reads while eating not only serves as entertainment but also reflects his intellectual pursuits and possibly his desire for companionship through the characters and stories within the pages. This behavior emphasizes his individuality and the depth of his character within the narrative.