In Naguib Mahfouz's "Palace Walk," the author highlights the contrasting emotions that individuals may experience. When people are deeply saddened, they sometimes find themselves expressing unexpected joy over minor matters. This shift is often driven by a desire to escape their sorrow and seek temporary relief from their emotional burdens.

The quote emphasizes the complexity of human emotions, suggesting that moments of lightheartedness can serve as a coping mechanism for profound sadness. It illustrates how individuals navigate their feelings, often fluctuating between despair and joy as a means of dealing with their internal struggles.