"Meridian of Blood" by Cormac McCarthy explores the dark aspects of humanity, illustrating how vanity can cloud judgment. The characters in the novel often believe in their superiority and knowledge, yet they frequently face the harsh reality of their limitations. Their arrogance leads them to make catastrophic decisions, highlighting the gap between human perception and truth.

The quote reflects the overarching theme that despite human pride and the belief in one's own wisdom, there exists a higher authority or reality that ultimately holds sway over individual judgments. This serves as a reminder that true understanding is often beyond our reach, and we must confront the inevitable submission of our flawed views to a greater moral or existential truth.