Iain M. Banks in his book "Transition" presents a cautionary perspective on the consequences of well-meaning actions. He suggests that despite our best intentions, the path we create can lead to negative outcomes, implying that unforeseen complications often arise when we overlook the details. This highlights the importance of mindfulness in decision-making, as good intentions alone are insufficient to guarantee positive results.

The quote further indicates that the nuances and specifics of our decisions can harbor dangers, like the devil hidden in the details. The "small print" symbolizes the often ignored aspects of agreements or actions that can lead to unintended consequences. Banks warns us to remain vigilant, as neglecting these critical elements can result in dire situations, reinforcing the notion that vigilance in our intentions and actions is essential.