The quote from Marian Keyes' "Watermelon" suggests that failed relationships can often feel like a waste, highlighting the emotional and physical efforts put in, particularly through the lens of beauty routines. It reflects on how such relationships overshadow the moments of joy, conflict, and desire, ultimately leaving behind a sense of loss.

The metaphor of beauty products symbolizes the investments we make in our appearances and emotions for love that doesn't last. Despite the effort, the relationships may end, leaving behind a poignant reminder of those efforts as futile, akin to irretrievably lost makeup that was once intended to create connection and happiness.