In this quote, J.M. Barrie paints a picture of stars as beautiful yet passive celestial objects. He suggests that their act of looking on forever is a form of punishment for some long-forgotten transgression. This perspective on stars imbues them with a sense of mystery and adds a layer of intrigue to their otherwise serene presence in the night sky. It invites contemplation on the nature of punishment, time, and the enduring beauty of the universe.