The quote suggests that shadows, which symbolize our hidden fears and truths, can only exist in the presence of light. This implies that to confront our shadows, we must acknowledge the light or truth that reveals them. Often, we can choose to ignore these truths or be overwhelmed by them, leading to a blindness to our authentic selves.

In "When Women Were Birds," Terry Tempest Williams explores themes of voice, identity, and the importance of confronting uncomfortable aspects of ourselves. The idea of the shadow serves as a metaphor for the struggles women face in finding and expressing their true voices amidst societal expectations and personal fears.