At some point on your road you have to turn and start walking back towards yourself. Or the past will pursue you, and bite the nape of your neck, leave you bleeding in the ditch. Better to turn and face it with such weapons as you possess.
In Hilary Mantel's "Beyond Black," the author emphasizes the importance of confronting one's past. The quote illustrates how unresolved issues can haunt individuals, leading to metaphorical wounds that affect their present. By likening the past to something that can chase and attack, Mantel conveys the urgency of addressing inner struggles rather than ignoring them.
Furthermore, the act of turning toward oneself suggests a journey of introspection and acceptance. Mantel implies that facing one's history with the tools one has—be it resilience, insight, or vulnerability—is crucial for healing. In doing so, individuals empower themselves and create a path toward greater self-understanding and growth.
