In Hilary Mantel's "Wolf Hall," the narrative is rich with vivid imagery that captures the essence of the historical setting. The phrase "a grey wrinkled vastness, like the residue of a dream" encapsulates the atmosphere of the period and the complexity of the characters' experiences. It evokes a sense of the elusive nature of memory and history, suggesting that the past is both profound and difficult to grasp.
This striking description highlights the often surreal quality of the events unfolding in the story, as characters navigate a tumultuous political landscape. Mantel's ability to blend reality with a dreamlike quality draws readers into the intricacies of Tudor England and enriches the reader's perception of the characters' journeys and motivations.