In "A Prayer for Owen Meany," John Irving explores the theme of divinity and the complex relationship between humanity and higher powers. The narrative suggests that the gods, regardless of their form or interpretation, often express a sense of vengeance that disproportionately affects the innocent. This leads to a contemplation of faith and the struggles individuals face when reconciling their belief in a just deity with the inherent injustices of the world.

The quote reflects a critical examination of religious and moral beliefs, indicating that the actions attributed to gods can mirror the darker aspects of human nature. It prompts readers to question the motivations behind divine narratives and the impact they have on people's lives, especially those who are vulnerable or unjustly punished. In this light, Irving's story underscores the complexities of faith and the sometimes painful realities of human existence in relation to the divine.