Anatole tries to convey a significant message about the unpredictability of life and the limitations of seeking divine protection. He cautions that expecting God's intervention in areas devoid of His influence can lead to feelings of punishment and self-blame when faced with hardship. He suggests that the complexities of life cannot be simplified to a formula where one's goodness always results in positive outcomes.

He emphasizes that issues in life are not as straightforward as a mathematical problem, advising against placing oneself at the center of it all. Anatole acknowledges that good and bad can happen to anyone, regardless of their moral standing. This perspective highlights the randomness of life events and the importance of accepting that misfortune can befall even those who act with good intentions.