“Our acts make or mar us, we are the children of our own deeds.”
- February 26, 1802 – May 22, 1885
- Born in France
- Author, poet, playwright
- Written novels and poems such as “Les Miserables” and “Notre-Dame de Paris,” he was a representative figure of French Romantic literature and had a worldwide influence.
Quote
“Our acts make or mar us, we are the children of our own deeds.”
Explanation
In this quote, Victor Hugo underscores the idea that our actions define us and shape our destiny. Each decision or deed we make has the power to either build us up or tear us down. We are the result of our own choices, and responsible for the consequences they bring. The phrase “we are the children of our own deeds” suggests that, like children who inherit the traits of their parents, we inherit the results of our actions—whether they are positive or negative.
Hugo’s words reflect a deeply personal and moral view of life, emphasizing accountability and the idea that we create our own future through the way we choose to act. Our character, reputation, and life’s direction are determined by the choices we make, and we cannot escape the impact of those choices.
In modern terms, this quote speaks to the idea that personal responsibility is central to shaping one’s life. Our actions—no matter how small—have lasting effects, and we cannot blame external forces for the consequences of what we do. It encourages us to take ownership of our deeds, recognizing that we have the power to create or destroy our future through the decisions we make today.
