In "Saving Fish from Drowning," Amy Tan explores the complexities of love and desire through a character's unwavering affection for her partner, despite his various shortcomings. The protagonist's emotional blindness highlights how love can often overshadow flaws, making one overlook the negative traits that might typically deter a relationship. This sentiment speaks to the depth of human connection and the sometimes irrational nature of our attachments.

The quote underscores the idea that love can lead individuals to dismiss significant social and moral disparities. The narrator acknowledges issues such as class and ethical failures, yet remains unaffected, emphasizing a kind of love that chooses to ignore critical defects. Tan’s work illustrates how love complicates our perceptions, leading us to embrace relationships that might fundamentally conflict with our values.