In "Heart of Darkness," Joseph Conrad explores the complex nature of loyalty and its ties to personal decisions. The quote, "It was written I should be loyal to the nightmare of my choice," encapsulates the struggle between one's commitment to choices that may lead to darkness and despair. The protagonist reflects on how the choices he makes can have profound consequences, suggesting that loyalty can sometimes bind a person to troubling paths.
The story delves into themes of imperialism, morality, and the human condition, portraying the internal conflicts faced by individuals when they confront the consequences of their actions. Loyalty, in this context, becomes a double-edged sword, revealing the darker aspects of human nature and the burden of choice within a corrupt and chaotic world.