The quote reflects on the unsettling nature of the mind, particularly when sleep fails to provide genuine rest. Instead of being a refuge, sleep allows haunting thoughts and fears to invade our waking life. This blurring of boundaries between sleep and wakefulness hints at deeper psychological issues that may lie beneath the surface of our conscious experiences.
Hawthorne illustrates that our mental state can be fragile, with unsettling thoughts emerging from the subconscious. The presence of these "spectres" signifies that unresolved issues or secrets from our inner selves can disrupt our daily lives, suggesting a more profound connection between our dreams and reality. Ultimately, it emphasizes the complexity of the human mind and the impact of hidden fears on our existence.