In Harold Pinter's "Ashes to Ashes," the quote reflects the tension between the serious pursuit of knowledge and the frivolous aspects of life. The speaker suggests that a dedicated life focused on scholarship often overlooks mundane or humorous realities, prioritizing intellectual endeavors over trivial concerns. This viewpoint emphasizes a certain detachment from everyday life’s lighter moments.

The quote symbolizes a broader theme in Pinter’s work, where characters grapple with existential questions and the weight of truth versus superficiality. It underscores the idea that an intense focus on scholarship may lead one to miss out on life's more playful, albeit absurd, experiences, highlighting the important balance between intellect and joy.