In Alice Munro's "The Love of a Good Woman," the concept of choice, particularly in the realm of fantasy, is explored as an intricate and often irreversible decision. The metaphor of a fluid choice that hardens upon contact with the ground signifies how dreams and desires can solidify into tangible realities once acted upon. This imagery suggests that what begins as an imaginative idea can quickly transform into something permanent, impacting lives in profound ways.

The quote encapsulates the tension between aspiration and reality, reflecting on how easily one's fantasies can distort into fixed paths. Munro's narrative delves into the complexities of human relationships and the weight of choices made, illustrating how our decisions shape our identities and futures. The moment a fantasy solidifies, it becomes a part of our lived experience, carrying the weight of consequences and the potential to alter the course of our lives.