In the quote from Philip K. Dick's "The Selected Stories of Philip K. Dick, Vol. 1," the speaker reflects on a past failure to appreciate and maintain something valuable, resulting in its deterioration. This expression hints at regret and a sense of loss, suggesting that negligence has led to irreversible damage. The mention of the artist being dead adds a layer of poignancy, emphasizing that the opportunity to preserve or understand the work has vanished along with the creator.

The sentiment captures a broader theme of human oversight and the significance of valuing art and creativity while they are still present. It serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and cherishing contributions to culture, as neglect can lead to a void that cannot be filled. This realization often comes too late, reinforcing the idea that we should be vigilant and respectful towards artistic endeavors and their creators during their lifetimes.