In Albert Camus' "The Myth of Sisyphus and Other Essays," the phrase suggests that what gives life meaning can also lead to despair, highlighting a paradox of existence. Camus argues that the search for purpose can be both enriching and burdensome, as intense passions and beliefs may drive individuals to confront their own mortality. This duality emphasizes the fragile balance between the joy found in living and the inevitability of death.

Camus challenges the reader to reflect on their motivations and the weight of their desires, suggesting that each reason to live comes with its own risks. The pursuit of meaning often intertwines with the awareness of life’s impermanence, revealing how the very things that inspire us may also contribute to our suffering. Ultimately, the quote underscores the complexity of human existence and the philosophical exploration of life's inherent struggles.