In Norman Mailer's "The Fight," the author explores the complex relationship between the living and the dead, emphasizing that our existence is shaped by forces much larger than ourselves. He suggests that being our own force means also becoming a servant to the memories and influences of those who have passed away. Such a duality implies that our lives are intertwined with the remnants of the past, whether they present as blessings or burdens.

This interconnection demands courage, as embracing beauty or success may come at the cost of confronting the emotions and legacies associated with the deceased. Mailer highlights that navigating through these powerful, often daunting forces requires boldness, as one must face the dread that accompanies such profound ties to the past. Living fully demands an acceptance of these complexities, intertwining the fates of the living with the echoes of history.