Nien Cheng’s quote emphasizes the strength and resilience required to endure life's hardships. She reflects on the need to not just survive adversity but to emerge from it as an unyielding force. Cheng's determination to remain unbroken, despite the challenges she faces, illustrates a powerful mindset centered on inner strength and perseverance.

This attitude of being “as strong as granite” suggests that true fortitude comes from within. It highlights the importance of mental and emotional resilience, demonstrating that the ability to withstand trials is essential to overcoming obstacles in life. Cheng’s experiences in "Life and Death in Shanghai" serve as a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.