In her book "Wolf Hall," Hilary Mantel explores the theme of power through the subtleties of perception and suggestion. She suggests that a man's true strength lies not in overt actions, but in the nuances of what remains unspoken or unseen. This half-light creates an aura of mystery that can influence others profoundly, as they interpret subtle gestures and expressions in their own ways.

The absence of clear facts can evoke fear and uncertainty in people, allowing them to project their own anxieties and desires into the unknown. This idea highlights the notion that power can be derived from ambiguity, as individuals often fill gaps in knowledge with their own thoughts and feelings, making them vulnerable to manipulation.