In "Midnight’s Children," Salman Rushdie reflects on the challenges faced by a generation born during tumultuous times. The phrase "the children of the hour of darkness were born" suggests that these individuals grew up amidst significant chaos and moral ambiguity, impacting their understanding of right and wrong. Despite being capable of brilliance and creativity, they struggle to grasp the concept of goodness, indicating a conflict between talent and ethical clarity.

The quote emphasizes the influence of the surrounding environment on the youth, hinting that their formative experiences in an age marked by darkness shape their worldviews. It illustrates the broader theme of how societal conditions mold personal identities, especially concerning moral guidance and the pursuit of virtue amidst confusion and complexity.