In Victor Hugo's "Les Miserables," love is portrayed as the ultimate source of joy and fulfillment, standing apart from the sorrows of life. The quote emphasizes that love brings an exhilarating experience that nothing else can match. This immense joy contrasts starkly with the pain and struggles that permeate human existence, suggesting that while other aspects of life may lead to sorrow, love remains a purifying and uplifting force.
The statement also reflects Hugo's broader themes in the novel, where love manifests in various forms—romantic, familial, and altruistic. Each of these forms of love serves as a beacon of hope amid despair. Ultimately, Hugo underscores that true ecstasy is found in love, urging readers to cherish its transformative power in the face of life's inevitable challenges.