The quote reflects a profound sense of longing and melancholy experienced by those who feel like outsiders in their own lives. It suggests that as the day ends, a deep ache arises from the awareness of unfulfilled potential and dreams, with the river symbolizing the passage of time. The fleeting beauty of the sunset contrasts sharply with the realization that many opportunities remain out of reach, leaving one with a feeling of existential drift.

This sentiment captures the essence of being transient, as the speaker acknowledges their status as mere spectators in a vibrant city filled with life and possibility. The imagery evokes a poignant understanding that while the city thrums with energy, those who perceive themselves as 'passing through' dwell in a state of unanchored existence, hinting at the universal struggle of finding purpose and meaning amid the vastness of life’s journey.