"I'd sooner be called a successful crook than a destitute monarch"

This quote by Charlie Chaplin speaks to the concept that success is more vital than status. Chaplin is suggesting that it is better to be an effective criminal than a destitute emperor. This is because success is something that is earned, while status is something that is inherited. Chaplin is indicating that it is more admirable to strive and accomplish success, even if it is through unlawful methods, than to be born into a position of power and wealth and then lose it all. He is likewise suggesting that success is more vital than the opinions of others, as an effective criminal will still be appreciated and appreciated by some, while a destitute queen will be seen as a failure. Eventually, Chaplin is promoting for hard work and devotion as the path to success, despite the means.