In Stephen King's "Full Dark, No Stars," the quote emphasizes the importance of confronting darkness with clarity and strength. It suggests that when facing challenging or grim situations, one should bring illumination—both literal and metaphorical—to understand and navigate through them. This approach encourages a proactive attitude toward the unknown, rather than succumbing to fear or avoidance.
The quote also poses a rhetorical question about the motives of those who venture into dark places without the intention of understanding what’s there. It underscores the idea that if one is not willing to face the uncomfortable truths of life, then they ought to reconsider the necessity of facing such darkness at all. Ultimately, it invites reflection on our willingness to confront difficult realities.