In Victor Hugo's "Les Miserables," the author emphasizes the conflict between material interests and human emotions. He suggests that selfish motivations can hinder our capacity to embrace ideals and feelings. The phrase implies that pragmatic concerns often take precedence over what is truly meaningful and heartfelt in life.

Hugo poignantly illustrates how basic survival needs, represented by the "stomach," can obstruct the "heart," symbolizing emotion and compassion. This dynamic between physical necessity and emotional aspirations highlights the struggles individuals face in their pursuit of noble ideals while confronting everyday challenges.