In this quote from "My Childhood" by Maxim Gorky, the idea suggests that when life becomes dull or monotonous, even negative emotions like grief can feel significant or meaningful. It reflects how people might find a sense of purpose or emotional intensity during periods of boredom or routine, as these feelings break the monotony and make life feel more alive.

The quote emphasizes the human tendency to seek emotional experiences, even painful ones, as a way to feel connected and engaged with life. It highlights the complex relationship between suffering and the desire for meaningful existence, suggesting that without emotional lows, the highs may lose their value.