Also I could hear Amanda's voice: Why are you being so weak? Love's never a fair trade. So Jimmy's tired of you, so what, there's guys all over the place like germs, and you can pick them like flowers and toss them away when they're wilted. But you have to act like you're having a spectacular time and every day's a party.
In this excerpt from "The Year of the Flood" by Margaret Atwood, the narrator reflects on the harsh realities of love and relationships. Amanda's voice serves as a reminder that love is rarely equitable, and it often leads to feelings of inadequacy. The idea that if one person grows tired of you, there are many others available, trivializes emotional connections, likening people to disposable items.
Additionally, there's a societal pressure to present an image of joy and fulfillment, as if each day is a celebration. This perspective underscores the superficial nature of modern interactions, where true feelings are often masked by the expectation of constant exuberance. The passage captures a poignant commentary on love, loneliness, and the façades people maintain.