Quote by Maxim Gorky
The intelligentsia ...was kept busy embroidering white stitches on the philosophical and ecclesiastical vestments of the bourgeoisie - that old and filthy fabric besmeared with the blood of toiling masses.
Summary
This quote suggests that the intelligentsia, the educated class, may be preoccupied with discussing and enhancing the ideologies and institutions of the middle class, symbolized by the "philosophical and ecclesiastical vestments" - representing their beliefs and religious practices. However, these ideologies are criticized as being tainted by exploitation and inequality, represented by the mention of the "blood of toiling masses." In essence, the quote implies that the intellectuals are primarily concerned with embellishing the existing oppressive system rather than challenging or transforming it.
Topics
Philosophy
By Maxim Gorky