Meaning: This quote by George Gissing, an English novelist, succinctly captures the essence of the relationship between money and time. Gissing suggests that money serves as a means to reclaim one's time from the grasp of obligation and misery. The idea that "money is time" implies that the possession of wealth enables individuals to free themselves from the constraints of labor and to use their time for activities that bring them joy and fulfillment.

In contemporary society, the concept of "time is money" is often emphasized in the context of productivity and efficiency. However, Gissing's perspective offers a different angle, focusing on the liberating potential of money in relation to time. By framing money as a tool to purchase "cheerful use" of hours, Gissing highlights the transformative power of financial resources in shaping the quality of one's life experiences.

The notion that without money, one becomes a "miserable bondsman" to time aligns with the idea that financial constraints can limit personal freedom and autonomy. In the absence of adequate resources, individuals may find themselves bound to circumstances that consume their time and energy, leaving little room for self-determination and enjoyment. Gissing's assertion underscores the significance of financial stability in enabling individuals to break free from the oppressive grip of time scarcity.

From a broader perspective, Gissing's quote also touches upon the societal implications of the relationship between money and time. It raises questions about the disparities in access to leisure and quality of life based on economic status. Those with financial means have the ability to carve out time for leisure, hobbies, and personal growth, while those facing economic hardship may struggle to escape the cycle of labor and toil.

Moreover, the quote prompts reflection on the value of time itself. Gissing's assertion that certain hours "would not in any sense be mine" without the means to purchase cheerful use of them invites contemplation on the nature of time well spent. It suggests that the ability to invest in enjoyable and meaningful experiences through the use of money can lead to a sense of ownership and fulfillment over one's time.

In the context of modern consumer culture, Gissing's quote also resonates with the pervasive influence of materialism and the pursuit of happiness through the acquisition of goods and experiences. The idea that money can be used to buy cheerful use of time raises important questions about the relationship between material wealth and genuine contentment.

Overall, George Gissing's quote encapsulates the complex interplay between money and time, offering a thought-provoking perspective on the potential for financial resources to shape the quality of one's experiences and the freedom to lead a fulfilling life. It invites contemplation on the ways in which individuals navigate the balance between work and leisure, as well as the broader societal implications of economic inequality in relation to time and well-being.