In Sinclair Lewis's "Kingsblood Royal," the protagonist faces challenges regarding societal perceptions and racial tensions. He grapples with the idea of his privileged life, which includes a beautiful wife and home comforts, as he confronts the pervasive hysteria surrounding race issues. The character reflects on his comfortable lifestyle and questions the implications of ignoring the racism that pervades his community.

The quote captures a moment of frustration, where the protagonist is urged to dismiss the racial hysteria that surrounds him, despite its significant impact on society. It highlights a tension between personal comfort and the moral obligation to engage with the complexities of race relations, emphasizing the struggle between individual desires and the broader social context.