Question

What is the literal meaning and deeper meaning?

For Zuko by Dave Harris
of another man’s sin. I have tried to earn my existence
in a nation that would not claim me. I have scorched
the ones who care most. I have searched the countryside
to find something I always had.

Answer 1

literal: he wants the people to give him respect

deeper: he knows that he has wronged the people and they view him as a tyrant. He hurt the ones he cared for, which were his people. He longed for love when he already had the love of the people