No, we weren't lovers, but in a way we had opened ourselves to each other even more deeply than lovers do. The thought caused me a good deal of grief. What a terrible thing it is to wound someone you really care for--and to do it so unconsciously.
In "Norwegian Wood," the narrator reflects on a connection that transcends traditional romantic love. He acknowledges the depth of their emotional bond and how it allowed them to share their innermost selves, even more so than lovers might. This realization brings him a sense of sorrow, illuminating the complexities of human relationships.
The narrator grapples with feelings of regret for having unintentionally hurt someone he deeply cares about. This highlights the pain of inflicting emotional wounds on those we hold dear, often without awareness of the impact of our actions. The quote encapsulates the profound nature of intimacy and the responsibility that comes with it.