In Joyce Carol Oates' book "Black Water," the author explores the idea that a person's true character can be unveiled in moments of competition, particularly within the context of a tennis match. The quote suggests that the tension and pressure of the game can bring out instincts and emotions that are usually hidden in everyday life. This setting serves as a metaphor for revealing deeper truths about one’s personality.

The tennis court thus becomes a reflective space where ambitions, rivalries, and vulnerabilities emerge. Oates uses this imagery to suggest that the dynamics of sport can illuminate the complexities of human nature, allowing spectators and players alike to witness authenticity and raw emotions that might otherwise remain obscured.