The quote from Victor Hugo's "The Man Who Laughs" emphasizes the importance of silence when it comes to suffering. It suggests that allowing one’s pain to be expressed openly can lead to betrayal, both of oneself and others. Misery, when vocalized, may undermine personal integrity and lead to negative consequences. By concealing suffering, individuals may protect their own dignity and the harmony of their surroundings.
This perspective encourages introspection and suggests that the burden of one's struggles should not be cast upon others. Instead of vocalizing their anguish, individuals are urged to endure and manage their hardships quietly. Thus, the essence of the quote champions resilience and the strength found in silence amid adversity.