This quote from Robin Hobb's '(Fool's Assassin)' brings to light the delicate interplay between hope and despair. The notion that one must first be elevated before being cast down captures the unpredictable nature of life's emotional and physical upheavals. It suggests that moments of optimism or elevation often precede profound disappointment, emphasizing the cyclical and sometimes treacherous path of human experience. The revelation about avoiding hope stems from a pragmatic, perhaps hardened perspective—an understanding that hope can heighten the pain of eventual loss. In a broader sense, this reflects a guarded approach to life's uncertainties. Instead of naive optimism, the narrator may have learned to shield themselves from the sharp sting of disappointment, recognizing that to experience the full range of emotions, one must endure the lows that follow the highs. It's a poignant reminder of resilience: to love, aspire, or dream—even in the face of inevitable suffering. The acceptance that hope can lead to suffering does not necessarily mean surrender but indicates a mature understanding of life's complex emotional landscape. It encourages readers to contemplate their own relationship with hope—whether to cherish it or to protect oneself from potential pain. The quote subtly portrays the human condition, where elevation and descension are intertwined, shaping our resilience and understanding of self amidst tumultuous circumstances.