In "Away from Her," Alice Munro explores the complexities of grief and the emotional toll it takes on an individual. The protagonist struggles with the idea of letting go of her sorrow, fearing that doing so, even momentarily, would make the eventual return of that pain more intense. This highlights how grief is not just a temporary feeling but a pervasive presence that can resurface unexpectedly.

Munro's quote reflects the deep internal conflict faced by those mourning a loss. The character’s hesitation to embrace healing stems from a fear that it may lead to an overwhelming resurgence of grief. This illustrates the delicate balance between accepting one’s emotions and confronting the inevitability of pain that accompanies love and loss.