In Jeffrey Eugenides' book "Middlesex," the character reflects on the complexities of masculinity and love. He compares the emotional expression of men to a coffin cover, suggesting that their feelings are often concealed beneath a tough exterior. This imagery implies that what they present is not always a true reflection of their inner selves, hinting at a deeper vulnerability hidden behind their actions.

This quote invites readers to contemplate the notion of love as something that can be both profound and constrained. It reveals how societal expectations shape emotional expression in men and raises questions about the authenticity of their feelings. Through this lens, love emerges not just as a romantic ideal, but as a complicated interplay of emotion and societal roles.