The quote from Jodi Picoult's "Perfect Match" highlights the profound difference between societal expectations and personal desires. The phrase suggests that many people experience a struggle between what they believe they should do and what they truly want, creating a significant emotional divide. This conflict can lead to feelings of overwhelming confusion and sadness, as individuals find themselves trapped between these opposing forces.

This metaphor of drowning in the gulf emphasizes the gravity of the situation, underscoring how deeply this internal struggle can affect a person’s sense of self and decision-making. As the characters navigate their lives, they illustrate the complexities that arise when individuals confront their true needs against the backdrop of external pressures and moral obligations, often leading them to a point of crisis.