In L.M. Montgomery's "The Anne Stories," the quote "Not failure but low aim is crime" emphasizes the importance of aspirations in life. It suggests that having modest ambitions is more detrimental than failing to achieve high goals. The protagonist, Anne Shirley, embodies this mindset as she pursues her passions and dreams, demonstrating that striving for greatness is vital for personal growth and fulfillment.

Through her adventures, Anne learns that setting low expectations can lead to a lack of motivation and diminished potential. The narrative encourages readers to elevate their ambitions and embrace challenges, reinforcing the idea that one's goals should be ambitious and inspiring, rather than limited and uninspiring. This outlook not only shapes Anne’s character but also inspires others around her to reach for greater heights.