In Margaret Atwood's poem, she explores the profound and often tumultuous emotions that reside within individuals. The imagery of hearts floating in dark, mysterious oceans suggests that each person's emotional world is complex and difficult to navigate. The comparison of hearts to fish highlights a sense of vulnerability, as they struggle to survive in a challenging environment.

Atwood illustrates the human experience as a fight against being overwhelmed by these deep emotions. The phrase "hearts are said to pound" emphasizes the physical manifestation of feelings, portraying the heart's continuous battle against drowning in its own depths. This metaphor speaks to the universal struggle with intense emotions, revealing both the beauty and pain of human connection.