The quote reflects on the idea that authority tends to diminish individual humanity. It suggests that when a person takes on a role, such as being a husband or a father, their individual identity can get lost in the expectations of that role. This phenomenon intensifies when considering figures like a sea-captain or an absolute monarch, where the weight of authority can overshadow personal identity and autonomy. As authority scales up, it can lead to a more profound erosion of individuality.

The implication is that humans might be destined to either feel oppressed or remain in solitude to maintain their true selves, unless they manage to avoid the detrimental effects of such authority. This perspective invites reflection on the struggle between personal identity and the responsibilities or expectations that come with certain roles. O’Brian’s observation underscores the challenge of navigating personal authenticity in a world defined by power dynamics.