What does the cryptic crossword clue "See only escape in a wretched state (4,4,2)" mean?

The definition is "See". The wordplay uses an anagram. anagram of ONLY + ESCAPE = CLAPEYESON; definition: "See" The answer is CLAPEYESON.

See only escape in a wretched state (4,4,2)

Daily Mail Cryptic #17039 | 13 Across | 2023-02-22 flower