Women play on their beauty as children play with their knives. And they hurt themselves on it, too.
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.