In Sigrid Nunez's novel "The Friend," the narrator grapples with the complexities of love and loss, particularly in relation to an aging friend, Apollo. The quote reflects her deep emotional turmoil and questioning of her commitment and sacrifices. She ponders if her selfless love for Apollo could somehow alter fate, leading her to entertain the idea that her devotion might bring him back from death.

This sentiment encapsulates the broader themes of the book, exploring the nature of grief and the irrational hopes that accompany it. The narrator's internal conflict reveals a profound sense of attachment and the fragility of life, as she contemplates the possibility of losing someone she deeply cherishes while yearning for connection amidst the inevitable sorrow.