The quote from Joyce Carol Oates' book "We Were the Mulvaneys" highlights the complexity of family dynamics, emphasizing that often the most significant emotions and messages are unspoken. In a family, it’s what remains silent that reveals deeper truths, suggesting that listening becomes an essential skill when navigating relationships. This silence can carry weight far greater than words, creating an underlying tension that shapes interactions.

On the other hand, the "noise" of family life tends to drown out these unexpressed feelings. This noise can represent everyday conversations and activities that mask the deeper issues and unacknowledged conflicts present within the family. Often, this ambience makes it challenging to truly hear and connect with one another on a more profound level, leading to a lack of understanding and emotional connection amidst the chaos of everyday life.