In "After the Fire" by Henning Mankell, the protagonist grapples with a sense of emotional heaviness that prevents him from fully experiencing joy. This internal struggle leaves him feeling uneasy and prompts him to question why he seems overwhelmed by his emotions rather than able to embrace the happiness he believes he deserves.

The quote reflects a deeper existential concern about the nature of feelings and the weight they can create. It highlights the disconnect between what one anticipates feeling and the reality of emotional burdens, prompting a reflection on personal experiences and the complexities of human emotions.