In Philip Pullman's "The Amber Spyglass," the quote suggests a significant shift in perspective regarding the Kingdom of Heaven. The idea presented is that this divine realm and its ideals are no longer relevant; rather, the focus should be on the present life and the experiences within it. This challenges the conventional belief that heavenly aspirations should dominate our lives, emphasizing instead the importance of our current reality.
This perspective invites readers to reconsider their values and priorities. By asserting that where we are matters most, Pullman encourages living fully in the moment and appreciating the life we have, rather than deferring fulfillment to a promised afterlife. It calls for an engagement with our worldly existence, suggesting that the richness of life here should take precedence over spiritual or religious ambitions that may detract from our immediate experiences.