In Victor Hugo's "Les Misérables," the theme of kindness versus justice is explored through the characters' struggles with morality. The quote emphasizes that while showing kindness can often come naturally, upholding justice is considerably more challenging. This reflects the complexities of human behavior and the moral dilemmas individuals face in their lives.

The narrative illustrates how kindness may sometimes lead to compromised justice, suggesting that true fairness often requires difficult decisions and sacrifices. Hugo invites readers to consider the balance between compassion and fairness, ultimately highlighting the importance of justice in a well-functioning society.