First of all: what is work? Work is of two kinds: first, altering the position of matter at or near the earth's surface relatively to other such matter; second, telling other people to do so. The first one is unpleasant and ill paid; the second is pleasant and highly paid.

Summary

This quote humorously highlights the disparity between physically laborious work and managerial or directive roles. The speaker suggests that physically altering matter or doing manual labor is often perceived as undesirable and poorly compensated. On the other hand, instructing others to perform such tasks is deemed enjoyable and financially rewarding. This statement satirizes the societal hierarchy of work, where those who give orders tend to be more highly regarded and better remunerated than those who do the physical work.

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