The quote highlights the challenges faced by both the people and their leaders during the French Revolution. It suggests that just as Louis XVI struggled to balance the ideals of freedom with the realities of ruling, the Sovereign People, who were expected to assume royal authority, ultimately faced similar difficulties. This points to a broader theme of the revolution: the tension between liberty and governance, and the inability of leaders—whether monarchs or the people themselves—to find a workable solution.

Simon Schama’s "Citizens: A Chronicle of the French Revolution" delves into the complexities of this historical period, illustrating how the aspiration for democratic ideals often clashed with the practicalities of power. The notion of the 'Sovereign People' as a designated ruler reflects the paradox of seeking empowerment while grappling with the challenges inherent in leadership. This struggle embodies the essence of the revolution, spotlighting the ongoing fight for a balance between individual freedoms and the necessity of organized authority.