The quote discusses the nature of grief, comparing it to an ugly couch that never truly disappears from our lives. Although we may try to disguise or move our grief out of sight, it remains a constant presence. The struggle is to learn how to live with this burden rather than wish it away. The author suggests that, like elephants, we can choose to acknowledge our memories associated with grief instead of allowing it to overwhelm us.

Elephants serve as a metaphor for how to deal with sorrow. Instead of being plagued by painful memories, they reflect on the good times and sit with their memories briefly before continuing on. This perspective allows for a healthier relationship with grief, highlighting the importance of remembrance coupled with resilience. The overall message is about acceptance and finding a way to coexist with loss while cherishing the positive experiences connected to it.