In the book "Youth" by Joseph Conrad, the speaker reflects on the contrasts between the wealth and comforts gained in life versus the experiences of youth spent at sea. He suggests that material gains, such as money and love, are not as fulfilling as the raw, challenging experiences of youth aboard a ship. The idea of embarking on a journey raises questions about whether those moments of youthful exploration and confrontation with the sea were truly more valuable than later achievements.

The speaker acknowledges that the sea offers little in terms of material rewards but presents opportunities for personal growth and resilience. There is a sense of nostalgia for the time spent in youth, filled with trials that test one's character. This reflection prompts a deeper contemplation about what it means to truly live and whether the pursuit of wealth and comfort overshadows the rich, albeit tough, experiences that shape young lives.