In H.G. Wells' "When the Sleeper Wakes," Graham expresses his deep disillusionment with the state of the world upon awakening from a long sleep. He questions whether all of humanity's aspirations have been in vain as he contrasts his earlier democratic ideals with the current oppressive aristocratic rule he sees around him. His emotional turmoil is evident as he grapples with the stark reality of tyranny replacing the hopes of progress.

Ostrog, who serves as a representative of this new order, questions Graham's perspective, prompting a confrontation between them. Graham's refusal to accept his role as the chief tyrant underscores his internal conflict. He cannot reconcile his past beliefs with the present situation, highlighting the tension between personal responsibility and societal structure in a drastically changed world.