In Hilary Mantel's "A Place of Greater Safety," the character Mirabeau reflects on a time when public opinion as a concept was nonexistent. This statement underscores the significance of societal attitudes and the power they hold in shaping events and decisions. Mirabeau's nostalgic recollection suggests a contrast between the past, where ideas were more fragmented, and the present, where public sentiment is a driving force in politics and governance.

The quote highlights a pivotal transformation in how leaders engage with citizens. It implies that the emergence of public opinion has altered the dynamics between the governed and those in power, marking the evolution of political discourse. Mantel's exploration of this theme illuminates how the recognition and influence of public opinion can reshape history and the course of revolutions.