In the novel "The Friend" by Sigrid Nunez, a significant quote reveals the complexity of love and emotional attachments. The speaker expresses a desire for their partner to move on from a previous romantic connection. This sentiment underscores the necessity of letting go of past relationships to make room for new love. The emphasis lies on the emotional struggle faced when one must forget someone deeply significant in order to embrace new feelings.

This quote encapsulates the tension between memory and desire, illustrating how difficult it is to discard past affections. The character's longing for the other person to redirect their feelings highlights the inherent selfishness in love, as well as the hope that new love can replace old wounds. Ultimately, it speaks to the transformative power of love and the challenges that come with moving forward in relationships.