In Shirley Hazzard’s "The Transit of Venus," the protagonist grapples with a sense of longing for an alternate reality, fueled by an inexplicable nostalgia for a life she never experienced. This yearning reflects her deep-seated desire for a profound connection and love from her husband, suggesting that her emotional landscape is steeped in unfulfilled dreams and what-ifs.

The quote indicates that the protagonist believes her life could have been enriched and transformed had her husband possessed a deeper affection for her. It highlights the impact of love on one's existence and the profound differences that genuine emotional bonds can create in a person's life.