This quote from Dan Simmons' 'The Fifth Heart' offers a nuanced commentary on social circumstances and personal integrity, intertwining it with the character of Sherlock Holmes. It suggests that the environment in which one is raised plays a critical role in shaping one's destiny—particularly in relation to societal roles such as those in Parliament. Holmes’ observation that many talented young men from less privileged backgrounds could have become Members of Parliament under more favorable conditions implicitly critiques the exclusivity and perhaps the inefficacy of political institutions.

Moreover, the remark that these young men are "too smart and too honest for Parliament" carries a dual meaning. On one hand, it might imply a degree of disillusionment with the political sphere, suggesting that intelligence and honesty are undervalued or even liabilities within that context. On the other hand, it serves as both a tribute and a lament; it honors the moral fiber and intellectual capabilities of these young individuals while acknowledging that such virtues may keep them from succeeding in arenas rife with compromise and pragmatism.

By choosing to take these promising lads to the theater, Holmes may be nurturing their cultural and intellectual growth outside the constraints imposed by their birth circumstances. Theater often serves as a space for empathy, creativity, and reflection—qualities essential not only for personal development but also for any meaningful societal reform. This subtle but profound critique invites us to reconsider how social systems, including political institutions, might fail to accommodate or recognize genuine talent and integrity.

In summary, the quote highlights themes of social inequality, the nature of political institutions, and the value of honesty and intellect. It invites empathy and reflection on how circumstances beyond personal control influence one’s life trajectory, while also questioning the ethical fabric of leadership and governance.