This quote illustrates the urgency of taking action in desperate situations. The idea is that, when faced with a life-threatening scenario such as drowning, an immediate response is crucial. Instead of deliberating over options, one should seize the opportunity for rescue without hesitation and exert every effort to reach safety. This analogy emphasizes the importance of decisiveness in critical moments.

Mary Alice Monroe, in her book "The Summer Girls," conveys a broader life lesson about the necessity of responding swiftly to challenges. It suggests that when help is offered, acting decisively can lead to salvation and recovery. The metaphor of swimming to safety reflects the resilience and determination required to overcome difficulties, stressing the value of taking action rather than becoming paralyzed by doubt.