In H.G. Wells' "The Time Machine," the narrator reflects on the ephemeral nature of human intellect and progress. They express sorrow over how swiftly humanity's dreams and achievements can fade away, likening this decline to a form of collective self-destruction. The melancholy sentiment suggests that our capacity for innovation and understanding is tragically limited.

This quote encapsulates the broader themes of the novel, where Wells explores the consequences of human choices and the eventual decline of civilization. It serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of human accomplishments and the potential for societal collapse when we neglect the very intellect that has driven our advancements.