In "Stone Mattress: Nine Tales" by Margaret Atwood, the desire for security and comfort is a central theme. This notion is poignantly captured in the quote about wanting to be surrounded by "kind, soft, insulating money." It suggests a yearning for a life free from worries, where financial stability acts as a protective barrier against life's uncertainties and hardships.
The imagery of layers of money emphasizes the character's deep-seated need for safety and emotional warmth. Atwood explores how wealth can create a sense of insulation from the harsh realities of life, reflecting on the complex relationship between wealth, protection, and vulnerability.