In Annie Proulx's "The Shipping News," the protagonist reflects on the nature of love through a vivid metaphor. He likens love to a bag of assorted sweets, suggesting that it comes with both pleasurable and painful experiences. As one chooses from the assortment, some sweets might bring joy while others resonate with bitterness or danger, illustrating the complex and multifaceted nature of love. This imagery captures the essence of desire and the unpredictability of emotional connections.

The metaphor of sweets emphasizes that love is not merely a singular experience; it's a collection of sensations that can elicit a range of feelings. The protagonist contemplates his desires and the potential risks involved in seeking out love, wondering if he is about to grasp something precious amidst the more common and safe options. This internal struggle highlights the delicate balance between the allure of love and its potential drawbacks, making the journey of love both exhilarating and fraught with challenges.