In Hilary Mantel's novel "Wolf Hall," the phrase "By the hairy balls of Jesus" captures the raw and often irreverent tone of the story. This line reflects the tumultuous era of the Tudor period, where political intrigue and personal ambition dominate. The characters, particularly Thomas Cromwell, navigate a world filled with moral ambiguity and shifting loyalties.

The use of such a vivid and unusual expression serves to highlight the stark realities of the time, contrasting the lofty ideals of the church with the gritty details of daily life. Mantel's writing immerses readers in the complex tapestry of history, where the interplay of power and faith is continually at odds.