You must be life for me to the very end," so he writes. "That is the only way in which to sustain my idea of you. Because you have gotten, as you see, tied up with something so vital to me, I do not think I shall ever shake you off. Nor do I wish to. I want you to live more vitally every day, as I am dead. That is why, when I speak of you to others, I am just a bit ashamed. It's hard to talk of one's self so intimately
In the passage, the author expresses a deep emotional connection to someone significant in their life, emphasizing the importance of that person in sustaining their own sense of identity. The act of living more fully is presented as a way to honor that emotional bond, even in the face of personal struggles and feelings of being "dead" inside. This sentiment highlights the interconnectedness of life and relationships, suggesting that the vitality of one person can impact another profoundly.
Miller reflects on the struggles of sharing intimate thoughts about oneself, feeling a mix of shame and vulnerability when discussing personal experiences. He acknowledges that the connection he shares with this person has become an essential part of his existence, making it difficult to detach from them emotionally. The passage reveals a powerful paradox of love and identity, illustrating how deeply intertwined our lives can become with those whom we hold dear.
