As More says, it hardly makes a man a hero, to agree to stand and burn once he is chained to a stake. I have written books and I cannot unwrite them. I cannot unbelieve what I believe. I cannot unlive my life. pg.404
In "Wolf Hall," the character reflects on the complexities of personal conviction and the weight of one's actions. The quote emphasizes that true heroism is not simply about facing death when there is no choice, but rather about the inability to retract one's beliefs and experiences. This acknowledgment suggests that one's lived experiences and convictions shape their identity permanently.
The speaker further illustrates the struggle between belief and consequence, highlighting that once written or lived, these actions cannot be undone. This tension reveals a deep understanding of the permanence of thought and life choices, signifying that the journey of self-understanding is irrevocable and fraught with implications beyond the immediate moment.