This quote poignantly captures the interplay between light and darkness, employing them as metaphors to explore deeper philosophical themes. On the surface, it presents a paradox: light, despite being the fastest entity we know, is perpetually preceded by darkness. This imagery challenges our conventional perception of speed and priority, suggesting that darkness, symbolic of the unknown, absence, or even death, is ever-present and anticipatory.

In a broader sense, the quote can be seen as a meditation on inevitability and the limits of control. Light represents knowledge, clarity, and life—forces we often perceive as progressive and dominant. Darkness, meanwhile, embodies mystery, uncertainty, and the inevitable end that precedes any enlightenment or existence. The idea that darkness "has always got there first" may suggest that the unknown or the end states are intrinsic and foundational—not simply the absence of light but entities in their own right that set the stage for light to make its journey.

Furthermore, this insight invites a humble acknowledgment of human limitations. Just as light cannot outrun darkness, our endeavors and understanding cannot fully escape the shadows of ignorance, uncertainty, and mortality. There's a subtle comfort, too, knowing that this balance persists in nature; darkness is not merely an enemy or void but an ancient companion waiting patiently.

Ultimately, the quote offers a profound reflection on existence, the balance of opposites, and the dance between progress and inevitability. Terry Pratchett, known for weaving deep philosophical musings into his works, captures here a truth that resonates far beyond a mere physical phenomenon, urging us to appreciate the profound dynamics that shape our reality.