In Joseph Conrad's "Heart of Darkness," the narrator reflects on the perplexing nature of life, describing it as a curious yet harsh arrangement driven by unfeeling logic that ultimately leads nowhere meaningful. This view suggests that existence may seem futile, with little to gain from it beyond self-awareness that often arrives too late to be of any real benefit.

As the journey unfolds, the character grapples with the painful realization that life is riddled with regrets that cannot be erased. This existential contemplation underscores the bittersweet nature of understanding oneself, highlighting the notion that insight often emerges after considerable loss or disillusionment.