The quote from Margaret Atwood's "Cat's Eye" reflects the deep emotional impact of absence and silence in one's life. While the speaker is ready for various challenges and experiences, the feelings associated with being alone and encountering quietness are unexpected and unsettling. This highlights a contrast between the anticipated turmoil of life and the profound effect that absence can have on the psyche.

Atwood's work often delves into the complexities of human relationships and the haunting nature of memory. In this quote, the notion of absence signifies not just the physical absence of someone or something, but also the emotional void that can arise, leading to isolation. Silence, in this context, is a powerful force that can evoke introspection and loneliness, making it a more formidable presence than any external struggle.