In Joseph Conrad's "Heart of Darkness," the narrator reflects on a poignant moment of understanding through shared experience. Having glimpsed the depths of darkness himself, he recognizes the profound nature of another character's gaze. This stare signifies a profound awareness that transcends the immediate, revealing an ability to perceive not just individual struggles but the collective essence of humanity caught in despair.

The character's judgment reflects a deep horror at the stark realities of existence, underscoring themes of alienation and the search for meaning amidst chaos. It illuminates a struggle to reconcile personal insights with broader existential truths, encapsulating the tension between understanding and the terror that such awareness can invoke.