In "Signs and Symbols," Vladimir Nabokov explores the deep emotions of a character struggling with a complex life. The desire to break free from his reality highlights feelings of entrapment and desperation. This sentiment captures the essence of longing for freedom and the urge to escape from overwhelming circumstances.

The quote "What he had really wanted to do was to tear a hole in his world and escape" signifies a profound yearning for change and relief from pain. It encapsulates the inner turmoil faced by individuals who feel stifled by their environment, emphasizing the need for liberation from life's constraints.