Meaning: This quote by Claude Chabrol, a renowned French film director, reflects on the societal and political implications of the fall of the Berlin Wall. The quote suggests that the notion of the end of the class struggle, or class war, following the fall of the Wall is a perspective privileged by those with economic means. Chabrol's observation is a critique of the idea that the dissolution of physical barriers, such as the Berlin Wall, automatically eradicates social and economic disparities.

The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 marked a pivotal moment in history, symbolizing the end of the Cold War and the reunification of East and West Germany. The event was widely interpreted as a triumph of freedom and democracy over oppressive regimes and ideological divisions. However, Chabrol's quote challenges the simplistic narrative that the removal of physical barriers leads to the elimination of social and economic divisions.

Chabrol's reference to an article, which he cannot recall the author of, indicates that his observation is not only a personal reflection but also a response to a broader discourse prevalent at the time. The sentiment expressed in the quote underscores the complexities and nuances of social and political change, highlighting the inadequacy of assuming that the dismantling of a physical structure automatically resolves deep-seated societal issues.

The assertion that "now the Wall was down, there could be no more class war" reflects a certain degree of naivety or willful disregard for the persistence of class-based inequalities. The implication is that the removal of the Wall does not erase the disparities in wealth, privilege, and power that underpin class divisions. Chabrol's critique of this perspective suggests a heightened awareness of the enduring nature of class struggle, independent of physical barriers.

Furthermore, the quote conveys a sense of skepticism towards the pronouncements of those in positions of economic privilege. By stating that "only someone with money could ever say such a thing," Chabrol insinuates that the perspective of class struggle being obsolete is inherently biased and self-serving. This challenges the notion that the privileged few can dictate the terms of societal discourse and dismiss the realities of those who continue to experience economic hardship and social marginalization.

Chabrol's background as a filmmaker and storyteller may also inform his perspective on the fall of the Berlin Wall and its implications. As a director known for his incisive explorations of human behavior and societal dynamics, Chabrol likely approached the historical event with a critical lens, attuned to the complexities of human experience and the enduring realities of social inequality.

In conclusion, Claude Chabrol's quote encapsulates a critical reflection on the aftermath of the fall of the Berlin Wall, challenging the simplistic notion that the removal of physical barriers signifies the end of class struggle. By highlighting the inherent biases of privileged perspectives and the enduring nature of social and economic disparities, Chabrol's observation invites a deeper consideration of the complexities of societal change and the persistence of class-based inequalities.