The quote reflects a deep emotional response to the power of language and art. The character feels an overwhelming urge to cry, not out of personal sorrow, but in appreciation of the profound beauty and melancholy found in poetic expressions. This indicates a sensitivity to the artistic experience that transcends individual pain and resonates with the universal aspects of human emotion.
In "A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man," James Joyce explores themes of identity, creativity, and the impact of art on the human soul. The protagonist's reaction reveals how art can evoke feelings that connect individuals to the broader human experience, emphasizing that words can carry significant emotional weight and beauty, sometimes bringing forth a quiet, reflective sadness.