Quantum: (noun) quantity or amount: the least quantum of evidence a particular amount. a share or portion. a large quantity; bulk. Solace: (noun/verb) comfort in sorrow, misfortune, or trouble; alleviation of distress or discomfort. (n) something that gives comfort, consolation, or relief: The minister's visit was the dying man's only solace. (n) to comfort, console, or cheer (a person, oneself, the heart, etc.). (v) to alleviate or relieve (sorrow, distress, etc.). (v) Definitions courtesy of dictionary.com

When we last saw 007, he had shut himself off emotionally following the betrayal of his first true love, Vesper Lynd. His last words about here were “the bitch is dead,” which is not something someone who has come to terms with Vesper’s death would say. All of the interviews and articles on Quantum of Solace reveal the same point: that the film will be far darker than Casino Royale and will involve much soul searching on Bond’s part

Michael G. Wilson was also quoted as saying: "You know, Quantum of Solace is a short story from Ian Fleming. I think it works for the film; I think it works for the story. In a sense, I think it was a good move to use an original title from Ian Fleming." Below is an excerpt from the short story Quantum of Solace from Ian Fleming's For Your Eyes Only.

"I’ve seen flagrant infidelities patched up, I’ve seen crimes and even murder foreign by the other party, let alone bankruptcy and other forms of social crime. Incurable disease, blindness, disaster – all of these can be overcome. But never the death of common humanity in one of the partners. I’ve thought about this and I’ve invented a rather high-sounding title for this basic factor in human relations. I have called it the law of the Quantum of Solace.

Bond said, “That’s a splendid name for it. It’s certainly impressive enough. And of course I see what you mean. I should say you’re absolutely right. Quantum of Solace – the amount of comfort. Yes, I suppose you can say that all love and friendship is based in the end on that. Human beings are very insecure. When the other person not only makes you feel insecure but actually seems to want to destroy you, it’s obviously the end. The Quantum of Solace stands at zero. You’ve got to get away to save yourself."