In "Les Miserables," Victor Hugo reflects on the complex relationship women have with their beauty. He suggests that beauty can be a double-edged sword, akin to a child playing with a knife. While it can bring joy and allure, it can also lead to self-harm, representing the dangers and societal pressures that come with physical appearance.

This quote illustrates the struggle women face in navigating their identities and societal expectations. The metaphor of beauty as a tool that can cause harm emphasizes the inner turmoil and risks involved in conforming to beauty standards, highlighting a poignant aspect of women's experiences in a judgmental world.