In John Steinbeck's "To a God Unknown," the character Joseph returns to his dark house, where he lights the lamps and tends to the stove. The small details of Elizabeth's presence linger, evidenced by the ticking clock and damp wool socks still hanging over the stove. These remnants symbolize her lasting impact, suggesting that certain aspects of life endure even after someone has passed away.

Joseph reflects on the nature of life and death, contemplating that existence is not abruptly severed. He realizes that one cannot be truly gone until the marks they leave on the world have disappeared. This insight emphasizes that the evidence of a person's life lies in their influence on others and the environment, highlighting the interconnectedness of life and memory.