In H.G. Wells' "The Island of Doctor Moreau," the protagonist reflects on a mix of intense emotions. He experiences overwhelming excitement coupled with a desperate will to live, emphasizing a deep instinct for survival that often prevails even in perilous circumstances. This phrase highlights the contrast between the exhilaration of adventure and the instinctual fear of death.

The observation also suggests that individuals who have never faced real danger may struggle to fully understand the depth of these feelings. The protagonist’s acknowledgment of his own desperation indicates a profound connection to the human experience and the lengths one will go to in order to preserve life. This duality encapsulates the tension between thrilling experiences and the instinctive drive to survive.