In Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra's "Don Quixote," the theme of adjusted perception is evident through the characters' responses to reality. The protagonist, Don Quixote, often perceives the world not as it is, but through the lens of his chivalric fantasies, leading to humorous and poignant situations. This tendency to reinterpret tears symbolizes a deeper quest for meaning and the struggle between idealism and reality.

The quote raises questions about empathy and emotional understanding. Characters in the novel often exhibit a unique way of looking at their experiences, adjusting their emotional responses to fit the narratives they wish to believe in. This highlights the human tendency to reshape our perceptions to find comfort in our experiences, mirroring the complexities of life itself.