In this quote from The Alexandria Quartet by Lawrence Durrell, the speaker expresses a view that pleasure is the only thing that truly matters in life. They suggest that pleasure takes precedence over happiness, implying that happiness might be a less significant or even a misguided pursuit. The statement reflects a perspective that places immediate gratification above deeper, more lasting emotional states like happiness.

You see, nothing matters except pleasure - which is the opposite of happiness, its tragic part, I expect. Here, the speaker highlights a philosophical outlook where pleasure is the central focus, even if it contrasts with genuine happiness. They seem to acknowledge that this view has a tragic element, perhaps hinting at the fleeting nature of pleasure and its inability to provide true fulfillment or lasting contentment.