In the quote from Cormac McCarthy's "All the Pretty Horses," the speaker reflects on the nature of personal responsibility and decision-making. They suggest that every foolish action results from a series of prior choices, not just the action itself. This implies a causal relationship where the roots of regret or mistakes lie in earlier decisions rather than isolated incidents.

The insight emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and the power of choice. It suggests that understanding the process leading to our actions can provide clarity and potentially guide us to make better decisions in the future, highlighting the interconnectedness of our choices and their outcomes.