It's important, no doubt, to understand the person we love. If we cannot manage this, it's necessary, at least, to believe we understand them. I must confess that over the entire eight years I only rarely enjoyed the contentment of the second possibility, let alone the first.
The quote emphasizes the significance of understanding our loved ones in relationships. It suggests that while achieving true comprehension may be challenging, having a belief in our understanding can sometimes suffice. The speaker reflects on their own experience, hinting at a struggle to find satisfaction in either of these states over an eight-year period.
This reflection indicates a deep sense of longing and difficulty in emotional connection, highlighting that love may often come with complexities. The author, Orhan Pamuk, conveys a bittersweet reality of love where both genuine understanding and the perception of understanding can be elusive, leaving one feeling unfulfilled.