It seems to me I am trying to tell you a dream--making a vain attempt, because no relation of a dream can convey the dream-sensation, that commingling of absurdity, surprise, and bewilderment in a tremor of struggling revolt, that notion of being captured by the incredible which is of the very essence of dreams...No, it is impossible; it is impossible to convey the life-sensation of any given epoch of one's existence--that which makes its truth, its meaning--its subtle and penetrating essence. It is impossible. We live, as we dream-alone...
In Joseph Conrad's "Heart of Darkness," the narrator reflects on the challenge of conveying the depth and complexity of a dream. He expresses the feeling that no matter how vividly one describes a dream, the essence of the experience—the emotions, the absurdity, and the bewilderment—cannot be fully captured. This struggle emphasizes the limitations of language in expressing profound experiences, suggesting that the true sensation of moments in life is often elusive and cannot be transmitted accurately to others.
The narrator further contemplates the solitary nature of existence, likening it to the solitary experience of dreaming. He conveys a sense of isolation, indicating that every individual lives through their own unique experiences and perceptions. This theme of existential solitude resonates throughout the narrative, highlighting the disconnection between individuals and the difficulty in sharing the true essence of their thoughts and feelings with others.
