"Who ever hears of fat men heading a riot, or herding together in turbulent mobs? No - no, your lean, hungry men who are continually worrying society, and setting the whole community by the ears"

Washington Irving's quote is a commentary on the nature of social unrest. He suggests that it is not the wealthy and well-fed who are the provocateurs of riots and mobs, but rather the bad and hungry. He indicates that those who are struggling to make ends satisfy are more likely to be dissatisfied with their current situation and hence more likely to take part in social unrest. This quote speaks with the idea that hardship and inequality can result in social discontent, which those who are having a hard time one of the most are the ones who are more than likely to participate in it. It likewise suggests that those in power must understand the potential for social discontent and take actions to resolve the underlying reasons for poverty and inequality.