In Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra's "Don Quixote," love is depicted as a powerful and unpredictable force. The quote reflects the dual nature of love, where it can both soar and retreat, leading individuals to adapt to its whims. At one moment, love seems to strengthen defenses, exemplified by the metaphor of a fortress. Yet, in the face of love's might, individuals often find themselves surrendering by night, unable to withstand its pull.

This portrayal emphasizes the complexity of love, illustrating how it can inspire strength during the day while simultaneously leading to vulnerability in its absence. The imagery of a fortress is particularly poignant, suggesting that love can create barriers for protection, but those barriers can easily crumble under the weight of passion and desire. Ultimately, Cervantes captures the essence of love as both a source of fortitude and a cause of surrender.