I agree with the initial post. My interpretation of that quotes is that the greatest poverty in life is not to live life at your fullest. There is a scripture that says, "man that is born of a woman is but a few days and full of trouble." Life goes by fast and for everyone regardless of culture or background, it is surely full of diverse troubles; so, I feel that it is the ultimate thievery to deprive yourself of happiness as best you can achieve.
Now as far as books, has anyone read John Grisham?