The quote reflects a common human tendency to vocalize dissatisfaction about current troubles, often amplifying our perceptions of negativity. It suggests that while we focus on the gloom surrounding us, we might overlook the possibility that our situations could actually be worse than we think. This notion encourages self-reflection and a reconsideration of our complaints, urging us to assess whether our perspective is overly pessimistic.

In the context of Henning Mankell's book "One Step Behind," this idea underscores a theme of confronting life's harsh realities. The narrative delves into the complexities of human experience, where characters grapple with their challenges. This serves as a reminder that amidst our struggles, there might be a glimmer of hope or relief when we recognize that things could be more challenging than they currently are.