In Victor Hugo's "Les Misérables," the quote "What is now in the past was once in the future" reflects the continuous interplay between time and human experience. It suggests that the events we currently view as history were once aspirations, dreams, or uncertainties. This highlights the idea that our present reality was once a projection of our future hopes and fears, indicating the fluid nature of time and existence.

The quote invites readers to consider how the choices we make today can shape our future and become part of our past. It emphasizes the importance of living in the moment while understanding that our actions reverberate through time. Hugo's work is rich with themes of redemption, struggle, and the interconnectedness of people's lives, reinforcing that every individual’s journey contributes to the broader tapestry of history.