The quote "He existed for me, and after all it is only through me that he exists for you," from Joseph Conrad's "Lord Jim," emphasizes the subjective nature of perception and reality. It suggests that an individual's understanding of another person is mediated through their own experiences and feelings. The relationship between the observer and the observed highlights how personal connections shape our views of others, indicating that existence can be intimately tied to individual perception.

This perspective reflects the broader themes of the novel, where the protagonist Jim grapples with his identity and how others see him. The idea that one's essence is intertwined with another's interpretation underscores the complexities of human relationships and the quest for self-understanding. Ultimately, the quote encapsulates the notion that personal experiences play a critical role in defining how we relate to and comprehend those around us.