The quote from Amy Tan's book "Saving Fish from Drowning" reflects on the nature of memory and perception. It suggests that our memories are selective and influenced by our emotions. We tend to remember events and experiences that resonate with us or hold significant meaning, while other details fade away. This selective memory can shape our understanding of the past and impact how we relate to our experiences in the present.

Furthermore, the phrase implies a deeper connection between the heart and the mind. It highlights that our feelings can limit or guide the knowledge we retain, indicating that emotional experiences often play a pivotal role in how we perceive and recall our lives. This duality of memory and emotional resonance emphasizes the complexity of human experience, where both heart and mind work together to form our narrative.