In Victor Hugo's "Les Miserables," a poignant observation is made about the current state of value in the world. The quote emphasizes that nearly everything comes at a high cost, suggesting that genuine value is hard to find and affordability is a rarity. The phrase "everything is dear" highlights the struggles faced by individuals seeking to acquire basic necessities or comforts.

Moreover, the quote contrasts material worth with the concept of trouble, which can be encountered freely and without expense. This illustrates a grim reality where challenges and burdens are abundant, implying that while material goods are scarce or costly, the troubles and hardships of life surround us incessantly and without invitation.