In this excerpt from "The Invention of Wings," the speaker reveals her inner turmoil and vulnerability. Despite wanting to present herself as strong, she confesses to feelings of fear, loneliness, and uncertainty. The loss she refers to creates a profound sense of emptiness, likening it to a death. This struggle reflects a deep emotional conflict as she grapples with the duality of loss and hope.

Moreover, the speaker expresses an unshakable sense of purpose that persists despite her grief. The "strange beating" in her heart symbolizes her passion and the drive to make a meaningful impact in the world. She acknowledges this feeling with love, suggesting that it is intertwined with her experience of loss, emphasizing that she cannot deny her desire to embrace this new path and honor her emotions.