I have not slept.Between the acting of a dreadful thingAnd the first motion, all the interim isLike a phantasma, or a hideous dream:The Genius and the mortal instrumentsAre then in council; and the state of man,Like to a little kingdom, suffers thenThe nature of an insurrection.
The quote conveys a sense of turmoil and anxiety experienced by a character reflecting on the gravity of their situation. The speaker expresses a profound restlessness, unable to find peace or sleep due to the weight of impending action, which feels surreal and dreamlike. This highlights the tension between thought and action, suggesting that the moment before taking a drastic step is filled with dread and uncertainty.
Furthermore, the imagery used portrays a conflict akin to a rebellion within the individual, likening the state of one's mind to a small kingdom facing insurrection. This metaphor underscores the inner struggle faced by people when contemplating significant decisions, revealing how such pivotal moments can disrupt the equilibrium of one's thoughts and emotions, creating a sense of chaos.
