In Jodi Picoult's novel "Leaving Time," grief is likened to an uncomfortable piece of furniture that is impossible to remove from one's life. This analogy suggests that, while individuals can attempt to decorate their lives and distract themselves from the pain, the emotional burden of loss is always present, much like an ugly couch that takes up space in a room.

The quote emphasizes the idea that rather than eliminating grief, people learn to coexist with it. They find ways to navigate life around their sorrow, accepting it as a part of their existence. Ultimately, it portrays grief not as something that can be erased, but as a persistent companion that shapes how they live and cope with their experiences.