At a certain point in his life he stopped searching for himself in everything that exists and gave in to temptations. Or, as you say, he sinned and later fled.
In this passage, the protagonist experiences a turning point in his life where he abandons the quest for self-discovery. Instead of seeking meaning in the world around him, he succumbs to various temptations, indicating a significant shift in his priorities and values. This surrender can be seen as both a moment of liberation and a moral decline, leading him away from his original path of introspection.
The act of "sinning and later fleeing" suggests a recognition of the consequences of his choices, reflecting an inner conflict. The character grapples with feelings of guilt and the repercussions of his actions, which may compel him to escape from the reality he has created. This theme resonates throughout Laura Esquivel's work, showcasing a complex exploration of identity and the struggles between desire and responsibility.