In Joseph Conrad's "Heart of Darkness," the theme of understanding is examined through the characters' experiences. They frequently struggle to grasp the realities surrounding them, both in the physical and moral sense. The quote highlights how distance—both literal and metaphorical—can obscure comprehension. This inability to remember or make sense of their environment reflects deeper existential dilemmas faced by the characters.

This sense of disconnection illustrates the chaos of colonialism and the darkness that exists within humanity. As the characters confront their own inner turmoil, they find it challenging to reconcile their actions with the profound implications of their journeys. The quote encapsulates the broader struggle to understand oneself and the impact of external forces that shape identity and morality.