In Victor Hugo's "Les Miserables," the quote suggests that human beings are complex rather than simple, characterized by two focal points: facts and ideas. This metaphor of an ellipse illustrates that individuals are influenced by both objective truths and subjective thoughts, highlighting the interplay between reality and perception in shaping one's identity and beliefs.

This duality emphasizes that our understanding of the world comes from a balance between the empirical and the philosophical. By recognizing the significance of both facts and ideas, we can appreciate the richness of human experience, where knowledge and imagination coexist, guiding our actions and shaping our lives.