In Wodehouse's "The Gem Collector," the quote reflects the idea that the transient beauty of a fleeting rose holds greater value than the enduring yet artificial beauty of a sculpted flower. This suggests an appreciation for the ephemeral moments in life that, despite their brevity, can be more cherished than something that lasts but lacks genuine essence.

The comparison highlights how experiences or creations that are short-lived can invoke deeper emotions and significance. It implies that embracing life's fleeting joys, much like the short-lived rose, can lead to a more meaningful existence than clinging solely to enduring but potentially hollow aspects.