Victor Hugo's quote from "Les Misérables," "He sauntered. To stray is human. To saunter is Parisian," captures the essence of strolling as an art form intrinsic to the Parisian lifestyle. The suggestion implies that wandering aimlessly is a part of human nature, yet it is in the act of sauntering—an elegant and purposeful meandering—that the true charm of Paris is revealed. It highlights a cultural appreciation for leisure and reflection amidst the urban environment.

This distinction emphasizes that Parisians embrace a unique way of experiencing their city. While straying may indicate a lack of direction or purpose, to saunter reflects a conscious choice to explore and appreciate one’s surroundings. Thus, Hugo elevates the act of walking through Paris to a poetic endeavor, inviting readers to view their environment with curiosity and grace.