And yet the hope of this paradise had not been enough to save him from a course which shut him out of it forever. Instead of keeping fast hold of the strong silken rope by which Nancy would have drawn him safe to the green banks where it was easy to step firmly, he had let himself be dragged back into the mud and slime, in which it was useless to struggle. He had made his ties for himself which robbed him of all wholesome motive and were a constant exasperation.
The character's journey reflects a deep internal conflict, where the allure of a better life slips away due to his choices. Despite the promise of paradise symbolized by Nancy's support and love, he finds himself unable to maintain his grasp on the possibilities that would lead him to happiness. Instead of embracing the opportunities for a fresh start, he succumbs to his own self-imposed limitations and struggles in a state of despair.
This self-destructive behavior stems from the ties he has created, which drain him of motivation and lead to constant frustration. His inability to detach from these negative influences reinforces the idea that personal choices can have profound consequences, ultimately severing his connection to a hopeful future. Thus, he remains trapped in a cycle of regret, reinforcing the novel's exploration of redemption and the impact of one's decisions on their path to fulfillment.