The quote "Fighting was an exhausting business, and so was fear," from Diana Gabaldon's "A Breath of Snow and Ashes," highlights the intense emotional and physical toll that conflict and anxiety can exert on individuals. Throughout the narrative, characters grapple with the burdens of survival, suggesting that both the act of fighting and the experience of fear drain them deeply. This duality reflects the broader human experience in times of turmoil.

Gabaldon's work delves into the complexities of personal and external battles. The quote encapsulates the idea that enduring strife, whether through physical confrontation or emotional turmoil, leaves individuals feeling worn out. It serves as a reminder of the heavy weight carried by those facing adversity, emphasizing how intertwined fighting and fear are in shaping their realities.