The quote from "Lola and the Boy Next Door" by Stephanie Perkins expresses a sense of frustration about how certain experiences or words may feel more like punishments than opportunities for growth or understanding. It suggests that the speaker perceives some situations as unnecessarily harsh or negative, which can diminish their enjoyment or make them seem more daunting than they truly are.
The quote highlights a common emotional response when faced with misunderstandings or challenging circumstances. It reveals a desire for a more positive outlook and hints at the importance of empathy and perspective in overcoming feelings of punishment or discouragement.