In "The Satanic Verses" by Salman Rushdie, the quote "Is birth always a fall?" raises profound questions about the nature of existence and the human experience. It suggests that entering the world as a newborn is not just the beginning of life but also a descent from a possibly purer state. This perspective invites readers to reflect on the inherent struggles and challenges that come with living, framing the act of birth as a complex transition rather than a simple arrival.

The philosophical implications of this inquiry lead to a deeper understanding of life's dichotomies, where joy and suffering coexist. Rushdie's narrative intertwines themes of identity, faith, and the search for meaning, emphasizing that the journey of life often involves grappling with one's choices and their consequences. The quote encapsulates the tension between potentiality and reality, inviting readers to explore how life, despite its inherent difficulties, can also be a site of growth and transformation.