The quote from Joyce Carol Oates' "Black Water" reflects a complex emotional landscape where love is portrayed as a choice rather than a spontaneous feeling. The character recognizes that she may not genuinely love another person, yet she contemplates the idea of loving him if it serves to protect or save her. This indicates a level of pragmatism about relationships, suggesting that acts of love can sometimes be motivated by a desire for safety or acceptance rather than pure affection.

This perspective invites readers to explore the nuanced dynamics of love and sacrifice in human interactions. It raises questions about the nature of love—whether it can be something one actively decides to engage in, especially under duress. Oates seems to probe the idea that sometimes, love can be more about the context than the emotional connection, and the choices we make in difficult situations can define our relationships and ourselves.