The quote reflects the complex nature of memory and how it relates to places. The speaker acknowledges that while memories can fade or be forgotten, the essence of a place remains intact in the world. Even if someone no longer consciously remembers an event or location, the memory exists as an image or a feeling tied to that specific space. This suggests a deeper connection between individuals and their environments, emphasizing that our experiences are imprinted on the places where they occurred.

This perspective invites us to consider the significance of memory in shaping our understanding of the world around us. It highlights how, even after loss—like a house burning down—the memories associated with that place persist, existing independently of personal recollection. The imagery of memories as "pictures floating around" illustrates the idea that places hold stories and histories that transcend individual experiences, creating a lasting impact on both the memory maker and the environment itself.