Man has upon him his flesh, which is at once his burden and his temptation. He drags it with him and yields to it. He must watch it, cheek it, repress it, and obey it only at the last extremity. There may be some fault even in this obedience; but the fault thus committed is venial; it is a fall, but a fall on the knees which may terminate in prayer.
In this quote from "Les Miserables," Victor Hugo reflects on the complex relationship between humans and their physical form. Our bodies are described as both a heavy burden and a source of temptation, suggesting that they constantly influence our decisions and actions. The struggle to manage our desires and instincts requires vigilance and restraint, implying that individuals often find themselves at war with their own flesh.
Hugo further emphasizes the notion that compliance with these bodily urges may not always be sinful; rather, it can lead to redemption through humility and prayer. Even if one stumbles in their obedience, such a fall can serve as a moment of reflection and spiritual growth, highlighting the imperfect yet meaningful journey of humanity in grappling with its physical existence.
