In Shakespeare's play "Macbeth," the character Lady Macbeth expresses her overwhelming guilt and horror after the murder of King Duncan. This quote highlights her realization of the deep repercussions of their actions. The phrase suggests that the old man's life held more significance than they anticipated, emphasizing the heavy burden of guilt that now weighs on her conscience.

The blood referenced symbolizes the moral consequences of their ambition. Lady Macbeth's astonishment at the amount of blood ties together the themes of guilt and the irreversible nature of their crimes, demonstrating how ambition can lead to tragic outcomes. The weight of their deeds becomes a palpable presence, haunting both characters as they navigate the consequences of their quest for power.