He's dreaming with his eyes open, and those that dream with their eyes open are dangerous, for they do not know when their dreams come to an end.

Hugo Pratt’s quote highlights the idea of individuals who are “dreaming with their eyes open”, living in a state of constant imagination or fantasy while still navigating the real world. Pratt suggests that these people are dangerous because they lack the awareness of when their dreams or idealistic visions no longer align with reality. The danger lies in their inability to recognize the end of their fantasies or the consequences of pursuing unattainable goals, which can lead to recklessness or disillusionment.

Pratt’s statement also speaks to the tension between vision and reality. While dreaming can be a source of inspiration and creativity, living in a dreamlike state without grounding in practicality can be hazardous. The quote suggests that the person who is constantly absorbed in their dreams may ignore the limitations or challenges of the real world, which could ultimately cause harm to themselves or others around them.

The origin of this quote comes from Hugo Pratt’s work as a comic book artist and writer, particularly in his famous series Corto Maltese. Pratt’s characters often navigated between reality and fantasy, and many of them, like Corto Maltese, were visionaries who pursued their ideals regardless of the risks. Pratt’s storytelling often involved themes of adventure, self-discovery, and the dangers of living in a world governed by personal myths and unrealistic aspirations.

Ultimately, Pratt’s quote serves as a cautionary message about the balance between dreams and reality. It suggests that while dreaming is essential for creativity and vision, it must be tempered with an awareness of the world around us. The danger lies in failing to distinguish when dreams have outlived their usefulness, leading to potential confusion or harm when one becomes too detached from reality.