The quote from Matthew Pearl's "The Last Dickens" suggests that unexpected events usually occur in clusters rather than in isolation. When something surprising happens, it often paves the way for additional unforeseen circumstances, much like misfortunes that tend to compound one another. This perspective highlights the unpredictable nature of life, where individuals can find themselves overwhelmed by multiple surprises or challenges at once.

This insight into human experience resonates with the notion that life is rarely straightforward. Just as joy and success can come in waves, so can difficulties and bewildering surprises. In both scenarios, people may need to navigate through a series of events that test their resilience and adaptability, reinforcing the idea that one must be prepared for the unexpected, as it often leads to a cascade of further surprises.