In George Eliot's "The Lifted Veil," the quote reflects a transition from a craving for discovery and understanding to a sense of contentment with familiar experiences. The speaker once longed for knowledge and deep insights into life's mysteries, symbolized by the "thirst for the unknown." However, this desire has waned, leading to a preference for the comforts of the known, suggesting a resignation to life's realities.

This shift illustrates a profound change in perspective, where the pursuit of the elusive becomes tiresome, and the individual finds solace in what is already understood. The plea to stay with the known indicates a desire for stability and acceptance, highlighting the complex nature of human desire and satisfaction. Ultimately, the quote captures the struggle between curiosity and the yearning for simplicity.