"I don't know how to sit outside myself and test against a hypothetical self who stayed home"

This quote by Thom Gunn speaks to the concept of self-reflection and the problem of being able to objectively assess our own decisions. It suggests that it is difficult to step outside of ourselves and examine our choices from an outside viewpoint. It implies that it is hard to envision what our lives would resemble if we had actually altered choices, and to compare our present selves to a hypothetical version of ourselves who stayed at home. This quote motivates us to take an action back and review our decisions, and to think about the possible consequences of our choices. It also works as a pointer that our choices have the power to shape our lives, which it is essential to put in the time to consider the possible outcomes of our actions.