The quote highlights the inherent ambiguity of love, suggesting that its expressions are not always perfectly tailored but rather flexible and varied, much like mittens that can accommodate different hands. This imprecision reflects the complex nature of human emotions, where feelings may not always be conveyed in the most exact manner.

In "Borrowed Names," author Jeannine Atkins explores the lives of notable historical figures and their relationships, particularly focusing on the strong bonds between mothers and daughters. The theme of love's subtlety resonates throughout the poems, illustrating how such relationships often defy straightforward definitions and expectations.