The quote suggests that guilt naturally drives a person toward seeking punishment to find relief or resolution. The feeling of guilt is described as urgent, always pushing individuals to confront their wrongful actions through some form of punishment, which ultimately offers a sense of satisfaction or closure.
In this context, guilt and punishment are portrayed as interconnected, with the latter serving as a necessary complement to the former. The quote implies that without punishment, guilt may remain unresolved, emphasizing the idea that mankind often seeks justice or penance to restore balance and peace within the conscience.