The speaker continued to drink wine, not for personal indulgence, but so that no one else would face disgrace. However, people observe this and remark that he has become ruined and lost due to alcohol.

This couplet speaks of a profound sacrifice. The speaker deliberately continues to drink, not out of weakness, but to shield someone else from scandal or disgrace. By becoming known as a drunkard, they attract all the blame and gossip, ensuring that the true reason for their sorrow or the name of a loved one remains untarnished. The bittersweet twist is that while their action is one of selfless love, the world simply sees them as someone ruined by alcohol, completely missing the noble intent behind their 'ruin'. It's a beautiful portrayal of bearing a burden silently for another's honor.