The quote reflects the persistent nature of conscience, which constantly hounds individuals with moral considerations and dilemmas. The protagonist contemplates how having a conscience means facing an unending internal dialogue that challenges decisions and actions. This relentless scrutiny can lead to feelings of unrest and guilt, tying personal ethics closely to mental well-being.

In Alexander McCall Smith's "A Distant View of Everything," this theme illustrates the complexities of human emotions and the burden that comes with self-awareness. The characters grapple with their moral choices, suggesting that the presence of a conscience may sometimes feel more like a burden than a blessing, as it compels constant reflection on right and wrong.