This quote humorously exposes the paradoxical nature of long-term relationships—how familiarity and duration can sometimes diminish traditional romantic gestures. The speaker narrates an episode laden with irony: a violent act with a broken wineglass interpreted as a symbol of passion. The humor lies in the subversion of expectations, where the usual narrative of concern and tenderness following an injury is replaced by indifference and practicality. The partner bypassing the wounded person to clean up suggests a comfort so deep that boundaries of romance blend into routines of coexistence. It reflects on how relationships mature, often trading the dramatics of new love for a ground reality that mingles affection with irritation or detachment. However, it’s evident that the underpinning passion remains; it just manifests through unconventional means, in this case, symbolic combat. This quote from David Sedaris captures not only a comedic moment but also a truthful reflection on human connections, where love sometimes needs to be rekindled intentionally, even if through odd or challenging scenarios. The blend of humor and candidness sharpens the notion that enduring relationships are complex; they do not always follow romantic ideals yet still harbor profound emotional intimacy. The anecdote invites readers to reconsider what passion looks like after years together and how humor serves as a coping mechanism within the gray areas of love and companionship.