Meaning: This quote by Honore de Balzac, a renowned French novelist, encapsulates the contrast between different professions and the varying motivations that drive individuals towards their chosen careers. The quote suggests that a grocer is drawn to their trade with a powerful and irresistible force, comparable to the aversion that artists feel towards it. Through this juxtaposition, Balzac highlights the divergent perceptions of different occupations and the underlying passions that propel individuals within these fields.

Balzac's comparison between the grocer and the artist serves as a reflection of the societal hierarchy and the prevailing attitudes towards various professions. The grocer, often associated with practicality and commerce, is depicted as being magnetically attracted to their work, implying a deep-seated dedication and commitment to their trade. This portrayal aligns with the traditional view of merchants and business owners as individuals driven by a strong entrepreneurial spirit and a desire for financial success.

In contrast, the reference to artists feeling repulsion towards the business of a grocer sheds light on the perceived dichotomy between the world of commerce and the realm of artistic expression. Artists, often characterized by their creative impulses and nonconformist tendencies, may view the mundane aspects of running a business as antithetical to their artistic sensibilities. This contrast reflects the romanticized notion of the struggling artist who prioritizes creative fulfillment over material gain.

Furthermore, Balzac's use of the terms "magnetic force" and "repulsion" conveys the intensity of the emotional and psychological pull experienced by individuals in their respective professions. The magnetic force alludes to the irresistible allure that draws the grocer to their business, suggesting a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment derived from their work. Conversely, the repulsion felt by artists towards the grocer's trade conveys a visceral aversion, highlighting the discordance between their artistic inclinations and the practical demands of commerce.

Beyond the dichotomy between the grocer and the artist, this quote also raises broader questions about the nature of work and the diverse motivations that drive individuals within different professions. It prompts reflection on the intrinsic and extrinsic factors that shape one's career choices, as well as the societal perceptions that influence the valuation of certain occupations over others.

Ultimately, Balzac's quote serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the complex interplay of passion, aversion, and societal expectations within the realm of work. By juxtaposing the magnetic attraction of the grocer to their trade with the repulsion experienced by artists, he invites contemplation on the multifaceted nature of human ambition and the divergent paths that individuals pursue in their quest for fulfillment and success.