In Victor Hugo's "Les Misérables," the author explores the inevitability of self-reflection, comparing it to the relentless return of the sea to the shore. Just as the tide unceasingly flows back, individuals are drawn back to their true selves and the thoughts of their past actions. This connection highlights the universal nature of this introspection.

The quote also contrasts two perspectives: for a sailor, this return represents the natural rhythm of life, while for someone who has wronged others, it manifests as a haunting conscience. Hugo suggests that just as God nurtures the ocean's depth, He also elevates the soul, emphasizing the transformative power of realization and redemption.