In his novel "Watership Down," Richard Adams explores the idea that people's fondness for winter may not be genuine. Instead, it suggests that what they truly appreciate is the sense of security and comfort that protects them from the harshness of the season. This perspective highlights the human desire to feel safe and resilient against challenging conditions.

The quote implies that the enjoyment of winter is often tied to one's ability to endure it comfortably. It reflects a deeper understanding of human emotions and the ways in which people cope with and relate to difficult experiences, emphasizing that our perceptions of joy can sometimes be linked to feelings of safety rather than the actual experience itself.