In Victor Hugo's "Les Misérables," the notion of wretchedness and its impact on human relationships is explored through the varying interests of different age groups. A mother's concern for her child's suffering highlights the strong bond between parent and offspring, while a young girl's empathy for the struggles of a young man reflects a connection rooted in shared experiences and the vibrancy of youth. These interests are driven by affection and the hope for a better future.

Conversely, the plight of an elderly man often evokes little interest or sympathy from others. This stark contrast emphasizes the loneliness that can come with aging, where the struggles of the elderly are seen as distant and cold. Hugo suggests that societal indifference towards the suffering of older people speaks to a deeper emotional coldness and a lack of connection in human relationships as individuals grow older.