In the quote from Philip K. Dick's "Flow My Tears, the Policeman Said," the author distinguishes between love and mere desire. He suggests that desire can be superficial, akin to wanting to possess an object, such as a lamp in a store. This comparison implies a lack of depth in wanting someone solely for the sake of ownership or personal gratification.

True love transcends this materialistic perspective; it requires a deeper connection that goes beyond wanting to have someone close. Genuine love involves caring for another person in a profound way that recognizes their individuality and humanity, not treating them as mere possessions.