In Joseph Conrad's "Lord Jim," the quote reflects the profound impact that the fear of death and failure can have on individuals. Those who navigate life while feeling the looming presence of death often experience a psychological burden that manifests as madness or despair. This theme resonates with the struggles that characters face when confronted by their own mortality or the consequences of their actions.

The notion of madness seen in conjunction with death speaks to the broader existential dilemmas faced by individuals in perilous situations. By highlighting this connection, Conrad delves into the human psyche, portraying how the weight of survival and the fear of disgrace can lead to mental turmoil. The characters embody these conflicts, illustrating the fragile nature of sanity when under relentless societal and personal pressures.