In Hilary Mantel's "An Experiment in Love," the narrator expresses frustration with the way discussions often devolve into moral lectures rather than providing concrete information. This highlights a common issue where emotional appeals overshadow the need for straightforward facts. The narrator yearns for clarity but feels overwhelmed by the abstract nature of the responses received.

The quote encapsulates a tension between the desire for factual understanding and the tendency for conversations to become preachy. It reflects a broader theme in the novel, illustrating how personal experiences and societal expectations can complicate the search for truth in relationships.