In this passage from Les Miserables, the character experiences a powerful rush of emotions upon seeing a cherished person. He describes a sense of overwhelming joy and admiration for her beauty, which he perceives as transcending the ordinary, blending divine qualities with human allure. This overwhelming feeling makes him feel almost euphoric, akin to being lost in the vastness of the sky, emphasizing the depth of his affection.
Despite this elevated state, there is a stark contrast as he becomes aware of the mundane detail of dust on his boots, which shatters the moment of bliss. This juxtaposition reflects the complexity of human emotions, where profound happiness can coexist with a sense of vulnerability and imperfection. The beauty of the encounter is marred by the awareness of something trivial, reminding him of the reality outside this blissful experience.