In "The Color Purple" by Alice Walker, the quote expresses a deep emotional connection between the speaker and a person named Nettie. The speaker grapples with the concept of death and questions how someone can cease to exist when their presence is still felt so strongly. This illustrates the idea that love and connection can transcend physical boundaries.

The speaker suggests that even if Nettie's form has changed, the bond they share remains, indicating that relationships can evolve but never truly end. The belief that Nettie is not dead emphasizes the speaker's enduring love and the notion that spiritual connections can persist beyond life, creating a powerful message about resilience and the impact of loved ones in our lives.