The worst feeling in the world is the homesickness that comes over a man occasionally when he is at home.

The quote "The worst feeling in the world is the homesickness that comes over a man occasionally when he is at home" by E. W. Howe explores the complex emotional state of longing for something even when it is within reach. Homesickness traditionally refers to the feeling of missing home or a place of comfort, often experienced when someone is away. However, Howe's insight highlights the paradox of feeling that sense of longing even when one is physically at home, pointing to a deeper sense of disconnection or unfulfillment.

Howe's words suggest that home, which is often seen as a place of safety and comfort, can sometimes feel like a foreign or alienating space. This kind of homesickness arises when a person feels emotionally distant from the place they should feel most connected to, leading to feelings of restlessness and dissatisfaction. It reflects the human condition of searching for a sense of belonging or inner peace, which may not always be found in the physical space of one’s home.

The quote also touches on the theme of existential longing, where the true feeling of "home" is not just about a place, but about a sense of purpose or emotional connection. Howe may be suggesting that a person’s environment or external circumstances can never truly provide the contentment or peace that one seeks. Even when a person is surrounded by familiarity, they might still feel lost or disconnected on a deeper level, indicating a lack of fulfillment within themselves.

Ultimately, Howe’s quote encapsulates the internal conflict between external appearances and internal feelings. It reveals how a person can physically be at home but emotionally feel far from it, grappling with a sense of alienation or the absence of true emotional connection. This highlights the complexity of human emotions and the elusive nature of finding true peace, even in familiar surroundings.