Meaning: This quote by Karl Kraus, the Austrian writer, journalist, and playwright, reflects a cynical and critical view of the concept of justice. In this quote, Kraus compares justice to a "whore" who cannot be cheated or denied her payment, even from those who are already suffering from poverty and shame. The use of the word "whore" in this context is intended to convey the idea of justice as a merciless and unyielding force that demands payment, regardless of the circumstances or the moral implications.

Karl Kraus was known for his satirical and critical approach to social and political issues, and this quote is a prime example of his sharp and uncompromising style. Through this quote, Kraus highlights the inherent flaws and injustices within the systems of justice, suggesting that it is a system that is inherently corrupt and unyielding.

The use of the word "whore" in this quote is a deliberate choice by Kraus to provoke and challenge the traditional notions of justice as a fair and impartial entity. By likening justice to a "whore," Kraus suggests that it is a system that can be bought and manipulated, and that it is not the virtuous and noble force that it is often perceived to be. Instead, he implies that justice is a system that is driven by self-interest and the pursuit of gain, even at the expense of the vulnerable and marginalized.

Furthermore, the reference to "collecting the wages of shame even from the poor" underscores Kraus's belief that justice is inherently biased and discriminatory, and that it often victimizes the most vulnerable members of society. This reflects a broader critique of the social and economic inequalities that exist within the justice system, and the ways in which it can perpetuate and exacerbate the suffering of those who are already marginalized and oppressed.

In essence, this quote by Karl Kraus serves as a powerful and provocative commentary on the nature of justice and its inherent flaws. It challenges the idealized perception of justice as a fair and impartial force, and instead presents it as a system that is driven by self-interest, bias, and exploitation. Through this quote, Kraus encourages us to critically examine and question the systems of justice that govern our society, and to acknowledge the ways in which they can perpetuate injustice and inequality.

Overall, Karl Kraus's quote about justice as a "whore that won't let herself be stiffed" is a thought-provoking and incisive commentary on the nature of justice and its complexities. It challenges us to reconsider our assumptions about justice and to recognize the ways in which it can be flawed and unjust. Kraus's words continue to resonate as a powerful critique of the systems of justice that shape our society, and they serve as a reminder of the ongoing importance of questioning and challenging these systems in the pursuit of a more just and equitable world.

I hope this helps to provide a deeper understanding of the quote and its significance within the context of Karl Kraus's body of work.