In Victor Hugo's "Les Miserables," the quote "A bird alone could have extricated himself from that place" suggests the theme of freedom and the burden of companionship. It implies that, in certain situations, independence allows for easier escape from constraints, highlighting how relationships can complicate one's ability to break free from difficult circumstances.
This idea resonates throughout the narrative, where characters often grapple with their connections to one another and the ways these ties can either hinder or assist their paths to liberation. The metaphor of a bird symbolizes the longing for autonomy amidst societal restrictions and personal obligations.