The narrator expresses a conflict between the mind and emotions, where thoughts can move on faster than feelings. Despite the passage of time and rational understanding, the lingering affection for someone remains strong, creating a sense of emotional dissonance. The struggle between moving forward intellectually and being tethered to love illustrates the complexity of human emotions.
This internal battle is likened to the pain of losing something significant, emphasizing how loss creates an enduring void. Just as someone might instinctively touch the spot where a tooth was, the heart continues to ache for what is lost. This metaphor highlights the enduring nature of love and grief, intertwining the experience of longing with the reality of absence.