The quote reflects a deep sense of sorrow associated with loss, suggesting that the speaker's method of coping involves trying to suppress their thoughts and feelings. This avoidance highlights the struggle between wanting to remember and the pain that those memories bring. It illustrates the complexity of grief, where attempting to control one's emotions can lead to an internal battle that is as difficult as facing the truth of the loss itself.

In "Beauty: A Retelling of the Story of Beauty and the Beast," Robin McKinley explores themes of love, loss, and emotional resilience. The protagonist's journey showcases how confronting sorrow can sometimes feel unbearable, leading individuals to choose distraction or denial. This poignant quote captures the essence of human vulnerability in the face of heartbreak and the lengths one might go to in order to shield themselves from pain.