The quote from "The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood captures the haunting impact of past trauma on the present. The imagery of a wave suggests that these memories can suddenly wash over the individual, overwhelming them with feelings reminiscent of their former experiences. It highlights how unresolved issues can resurface unexpectedly, creating a sense of faintness and disorientation.

This reflection emphasizes the struggle individuals face when confronting their past. The characters in Atwood's narrative often grapple with the weight of their previous lives, revealing how history continuously influences their thoughts and emotions. Such experiences illustrate the deep psychological scars left by oppressive circumstances, reinforcing the theme of memory's profound effects on identity.