“It is not a hyperbole to say that the poor are enslaved by their poverty and the middle classes that they have bought into a myth about themselves”

Simplified Meaning:

When people are very poor, they often feel trapped by their lack of money. They can't easily escape their situation because they don't have enough resources or opportunities. It's like being stuck in a prison where you can't leave because you don't have the keys. For example, a person with no money might not be able to go to school, get medical help, or find a good job. On the other hand, people in the middle class might believe they are doing well because society tells them so. They often strive to buy new things and keep up with trends, thinking that this makes them successful. However, this can lead to stress and unhappiness if they constantly feel they need to do more to prove their worth. For instance, someone might work long hours in a job they don't like just to afford a bigger house or a nicer car, believing this will make them happy. Understanding this can help people think more critically about their life choices. Instead of trying to keep up with what others think is important, they might find more satisfaction by focusing on what truly matters to them.