The sentiment expressed in Naguib Mahfouz's "Sugar Street" highlights the duality of love; it can bring both joy and frustration. When individuals are enveloped in a romantic relationship, they might experience moments of resentment, questioning the sacrifices they make or the challenges they face. However, the absence of love brings a clear longing and realization of its value, prompting feelings of nostalgia for what once was.
This quote reflects the complexity of human emotions tied to love, emphasizing that even amidst turmoil, the heart yearns for the connections that once enriched our lives. It serves as a reminder that love's importance often becomes more apparent only when it is no longer present, urging us to appreciate its presence while we still have it.