The quote from Joyce Carol Oates' "The Accursed" highlights the impact of gossip and its potential to harm relationships and reputations. It suggests that rumors often lack substance and are created more to hurt individuals than to convey any real truth. This points to the destructive nature of talk that circulates without evidence or intent to clarify, underscoring how easy it is for false narratives to take root in people's perceptions.

Oates’ words resonate deeply in exploring themes of perception and reality, emphasizing that what is often believed may not reflect actual events or character. By addressing the painful effects of gossip, she encourages readers to consider the responsibility that comes with words and the importance of seeking truth amidst misleading narratives.