In Lawrence Durrell's "Balthazar," the quote reflects a fascination with the chaotic and intertwined nature of events and experiences. The imagery of overlapping and crawling over one another like wet crabs suggests a desire to embrace life's complexity, unpredictability, and the layering of moments that create a rich, textured reality.

This perspective emphasizes the beauty found in disorder and the interconnectedness of life's happenings. Durrell seems to appreciate the vivid, sometimes overwhelming sensation of events blending, which adds depth and intensity to the human experience, highlighting a passionate engagement with life's vibrant chaos.