The quote from Victor Hugo's "Les Misérables" suggests that indulging in daydreams and escapism can ultimately lead to despair. It implies that there is a fine line between seeking refuge in reverie and finding oneself overwhelmed by one's own thoughts and feelings. Over time, a constant retreat into fantasy can lead to a metaphorical drowning in one’s own mindset, where the boundary between reality and escapism blurs dangerously.
This reflection serves as a reminder of the importance of balancing imagination with engagement in the real world. While daydreaming can be a source of creativity and comfort, excessive withdrawal into such fantasies can have detrimental effects on one's mental health. Individuals must be mindful of how they manage their dreams and realities to avoid losing themselves in an unending cycle of escape.