In Marilynne Robinson's "Housekeeping," the resilience of families is emphasized, suggesting that despite hardships and attempts to tear them apart, bonds remain unbroken. The narrative portrays the struggle against forces that seek to disrupt familial ties, illustrating the depth of suffering faced by families as they endure loss and displacement. The imagery of curses, exile, and disaster underscores the relentless challenges they encounter.

Amidst this adversity, the role of storytelling becomes vital. Old women sing of sorrows, capturing the collective pain and experience of families through songs shared in quiet moments. This act of remembrance and reflection on past struggles highlights the enduring nature of family connections, suggesting that, while physical separations may occur, the emotional ties and stories persist, woven into the fabric of life.