It is preoccupation with possessions, more than anything else, that prevents men from living freely and nobly.

Summary

This quote suggests that the excessive focus on material possessions is the primary obstacle preventing individuals from truly living freely and nobly. By being preoccupied with acquiring and maintaining belongings, people may become burdened and confined, hindering their ability to pursue a life of genuine freedom and moral virtue. It implies that attaching too much importance to material wealth can be detrimental to one's overall well-being and prevent them from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful existence.