The quote reflects a profound realization about the nature of impulses and decisions. It suggests that what often feels like a spontaneous idea or urge is actually a premeditated choice that has been subconsciously formed over time. This perspective shifts the understanding of personal motivation, highlighting that these impulses are rooted in prior contemplation and intention rather than being arbitrary moments of inspiration.

This insight speaks to the complexity of human behavior and decision-making. It implies that the mind continuously processes experiences and emotions, leading to decisions that await the right moment for expression. The author, Dick Francis, invites readers to consider how much of their spontaneous actions are influenced by deeper, previously established thoughts, emphasizing that our choices are often more deliberate than they may initially appear.