In Annie Proulx's novel, The Shipping News, the quote "By January it had always been winter" highlights the harsh and unyielding nature of the winter season in Newfoundland. This phrase encapsulates the transition into the depths of winter that characterizes life in this rugged coastal environment, where snow and cold become a backdrop for the characters' struggles and resilience. The often severe weather reflects the emotional tones of the story, representing both challenge and continuity.

The mention of January suggests a cyclical nature of seasons and life, where winter's arrival is inevitable and predictable. It symbolizes a period of reflection and endurance for the protagonist, Quoyle, as he confronts both his past and the stark realities of his life. Through this imagery, Proulx sets the stage for themes of survival, coming-of-age, and the stark beauty of the Newfoundlanders' landscape, which shapes their lives and experiences.