The quote expresses profound sorrow and a sense of worthlessness, highlighting the emotional turmoil of the character. The individual feels that their heart, once capable of love and joy, has transformed into something hard and unfeeling, akin to stone. This transformation signifies a deep inner conflict and loss of self-esteem, suggesting that the character is grappling with feelings of inadequacy and despair.
In the context of Raymond Carver's "What We Talk About When We Talk About Love," this sentiment underscores the complexities of love and relationships. The character’s admission of being “no good” reflects a universal struggle with self-worth and the impact of love on one’s identity. Through this intense emotional lens, Carver captures the fragility of human connection and the painful recognition of one's limitations.