In Joyce Carol Oates' "Hazards of Time Travel," the theme of relief is explored as a vital source of happiness for individuals who might otherwise feel devoid of joy. The narrative suggests that relief can serve as a crucial emotional safeguard, providing brief moments of happiness amidst potential despair or numbness in life.
This perspective highlights that for some, relief becomes a rare light in an otherwise dark existence. The quote encapsulates this notion, emphasizing that even a fleeting sense of relief can bring a meaningful sense of happiness to those individuals facing overwhelming challenges, hinting at the complex layers of human emotion and the search for joy in difficult circumstances.