In her work, Annie Dillard explores the depths of human experience, suggesting that while psychology often warns us of the underlying violence and fear within, there exists a profound layer beneath it all. By confronting and diving deeper into these darker aspects, one can uncover a deeper truth that transcends scientific understanding—an essence that supports all existence. This foundation, described as a matrix or unified field, reveals the interconnectedness of life and our compassionate nature towards one another.

Dillard emphasizes that this unified field is innate and not something we acquire through learning. It serves as the source of both goodness and evil, highlighting the complexities of human relationships and our collective journey. Her reflections remind us that beneath the surface struggles, there lies a profound capacity for care and community, which binds us all together in our shared existence.