In the quote from The Alexandria Quartet by Lawrence Durrell, the phrase suggests that both gamblers and lovers often engage in their pursuits with a subconscious acceptance of potential loss. They are driven by the thrill, desire, or hope that outweighs the risk of failure, making the act of risking itself meaningful. This perspective highlights the inherently risky nature of love and gambling, emphasizing their playful yet perilous qualities.

The quote implies that for many, love and gambling are endeavors where the outcome is uncertain, and participants are sometimes willing to accept defeat as part of the journey. It points to a profound understanding of human nature—embracing risk and potential loss in pursuit of passion, excitement, or destiny. Durrell underscores that these activities are more about the experience than the guarantee of success.