In Aimee Bender's "Willful Creatures," the protagonist experiences a profound emotional struggle. The imagery of longing being a torrent suggests an overwhelming desire or yearning that consumes him. His intense feelings are so potent that they create a sense of drowning, illustrating the depth of his inner turmoil.

This passage highlights the complexity of human emotions, where love, desire, and longing can become burdensome. The state of being overwhelmed by one’s feelings resonates with the universal experience of struggling with unfulfilled desires, presenting a vivid snapshot of the character's inner life.