The excerpt illustrates the divide between those who rely on reason and those who have experienced revelation. It suggests that without personal experience of the extraordinary, people cannot trust or believe in it, as they only understand the world through rational thought. This fundamental division shapes perceptions and beliefs across humanity.
The passage also implies that true progress occurs when reason and revelation coexist harmoniously, resulting in profound advancements in understanding and culture. The author, Mark Helprin, reflects on this interplay, hinting at the potential greatness of an era enriched by both logical reasoning and transcendental insights.