Why do you suppose the poets talk about hearts?' he asked me suddenly. 'When they discuss emotional damage? The tissue of hearts is tough as a shoe. Did you ever sew up a heart?'I shook my head. 'No, but I've watched. I know what you mean.' The walls of a heart are thick and strong, and the surgeons use heavy needles. It takes a good bit of strength, but it pulls together neatly. As much as anything it's like binding a book
The conversation touches on the duality of the heart as both a physical organ and a symbol of emotion. The speaker questions why poets emphasize the heart when exploring themes of emotional pain, suggesting that the heart is resilient, akin to the toughness of leather. Despite its strength, it can be metaphorically damaged in ways that poetry often seeks to express, illustrating the complexity of human experiences with love and loss.
The comparison of repairing a heart to binding a book highlights the careful work required to mend emotional wounds. It indicates that, like a book's pages, hearts can come together after being torn apart, suggesting the potential for healing. This metaphor acknowledges the strength needed to confront emotional damage while also appreciating the artistry involved in redefining one's narrative after heartache.
