The quote from Mark Helprin's "Winter's Tale" reflects the internal struggle of Marxists who are deeply frustrated by their inability to influence the world around them. Despite their passion for change and their desire to assert control, they feel marginalized when their voices go unheard, symbolized by their unreturned letters to the editor. This highlights a broader theme of disillusionment with societal structures that prevent ideological expressions from gaining traction.

This sentiment underscores the emotional turmoil faced by those advocating for radical ideas in a world that often dismisses them. It points to the disconnect between ambition and reality, illustrating how deeply held beliefs can lead to feelings of helplessness when faced with a resistant audience. The metaphor of being "torn up" suggests that their aspirations are not easily reconciled with the rejection they encounter, portraying a vivid picture of their enduring struggle.