It seems to me, he said very softly, that human society has been always that, and perhaps will be always that: organizations growing and stifling individuals, and individuals revolting hopelessly against them, and at last forming new societies to crush the old societies and becoming slaves again in their turn…. I thought you were a socialist, broke in Genevieve sharply, in a voice that hurt him to the quick, he did not know why.
The quote reflects a deep observation about the cyclical nature of human societies, where organizational structures evolve over time, often at the expense of individual freedom. The speaker suggests that throughout history, societies have established systems that ultimately stifle personal identities, leading to inevitable rebellions by individuals. However, this rebellion can result in the formation of new societies that replicate the same oppressive conditions, illustrating a grim cycle of oppression and revolt.
The exchange also highlights a tension between ideals, as one character challenges the other’s belief system. Genevieve's sharp interruption implies a misunderstanding or conflict regarding political beliefs, specifically socialism. This moment hints at personal struggles in navigating social ideals versus the harsh realities of societal structures, suggesting that even well-intentioned movements can lead to repeated patterns of domination and subjugation.