The quote from Joseph Conrad's "Heart of Darkness" emphasizes the primal nature of hunger, suggesting that it is an all-consuming force. The statement points out that fear cannot combat the experience of hunger; instead, it illustrates hunger as a fundamental human condition. This relentless drive for sustenance highlights the raw instincts that underpin human behavior.
Furthermore, patience is rendered ineffective in the face of such a basic need. Hunger exists in its own right, independent of external factors. This suggests that no matter how patient a person may be, true hunger must be addressed directly, underscoring the idea that some human experiences, like hunger, are unavoidable and demand immediate attention.