The quote reflects on the futility of using violence to achieve profound changes, particularly regarding the human spirit. It suggests that one cannot force transformation or enlightenment through aggressive means, much like attempting to sculpt stone with brute force. The essence of peace is depicted as something that exists in the present, rather than a distant promise of the future. This perspective challenges the reader to consider the true nature of peace and violence in the context of human experience.

In Denis Johnson's "Tree of Smoke," this message resonates with the broader themes of conflict and the search for meaning during troubled times. The idea that genuine peace can only manifest in the here and now reinforces the notion that waiting for external circumstances to change before finding inner tranquility is misguided. Ultimately, the quote serves as a powerful reminder that the path to understanding and peace requires patience, introspection, and a rejection of violent solutions.