In the quote from Louis de Bernières' "So Much Life Left Over," the author reflects on the paradox of survival after a conflict where death seemed inevitable. The sense of having been prepared for the end yet still finding oneself alive creates a deep contemplation about the meaning of life and the opportunities that lie ahead. It suggests a struggle with the weight of existence and the untapped potential that remains when one’s expectations are fundamentally altered.

The phrase "those roads not taken" evokes the idea of choices and possibilities that were never explored due to the circumstances of war. This highlights the complexity of human experience, where each decision leads to different outcomes, and the burden of unfulfilled experiences can haunt those who survive. Ultimately, de Bernières captures the essence of reflecting on life’s unpredictability and the endless paths that could have been pursued.