The speaker expresses a deep concern about the state of the world, particularly focusing on the alarming behavior of students. They attribute this decline in morality and decorum to the negative influence of modern inventions, suggesting that technological advancements have led to societal decay. The sentiment reflects a nostalgic yearning for a past where discipline and respect were more prevalent among the youth.

This quote from Victor Hugo's "Notre-Dame de Paris" underscores a recurring theme in literature regarding the impact of progress on traditional values. The speaker's frustration highlights the tension between innovation and the preservation of cultural norms, indicating a belief that rapid change can lead to moral disarray. Ultimately, it serves as a critique of contemporary society's direction and a lamentation for lost virtues.