Herman Melville: Do It for Pay
on Friday, September 3, 2021Herman Melville Money Quote saying there is nothing you can name that someone will not do for money – anything. Herman Melville said:
“There is nothing namable but that some men will, or undertake to, do it for pay” — Herman Melville
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In this quote, Herman Melville seems to be making an observation about human nature and the workforce. Specifically:
- Melville states that for virtually “anything namable” or conceivable task, there are some people willing to do that work “for pay.”
- He appears to be acknowledging that for any job, no matter how unusual or unappealing it may seem, there are individuals who will take it on solely for financial compensation or a wage.
- Melville’s quote implies that money is often a primary motivator that enables any kind of work to be performed, even duties others may be reluctant to take responsibility for.
The best interpretation is that Melville believed financial incentives allow labor markets to function for virtually any required role or duty, since there are typically those pragmatic enough to perform even the most unappealing of tasks in exchange for a wage according to their priorities. His quote conveys a perspective that compensation enables specialization and completion of necessary jobs that others may disregard.
Birthday: August 1, 1819 – Death: September 28, 1891