In Joseph Conrad's "Heart of Darkness," the quote reflects on the nature of humanity and the choices individuals make. It suggests that people are often caught between foolishness and a higher moral awareness. Those who might make a pact with the devil are either too naive to understand the implications or too enlightened to consider such a bargain. The speaker questions the wisdom of those who remain oblivious to the darker aspects of life and suggests that their detachment may be a loss.

For most people, the reality of existence involves confronting both the beauty and the ugliness of the world. The mention of "breathing dead hippo" symbolizes the challenges and unpleasantness of life that must be endured. Unlike the exalted beings who ignore worldly issues, the ordinary person grapples with the full spectrum of experiences, from the heavenly to the foul. Conrad emphasizes the complexity of human existence and the necessity of facing life's harsh realities while striving for understanding and meaning.