In "An Echo in the Bone" by Diana Gabaldon, the character expresses the overwhelming nature of farm life. No matter how much work a person accomplishes, the tasks seem to multiply, creating an endless cycle of responsibilities. This sense of being engulfed by the workload is likened to the biblical story of Jonah, who was swallowed by a whale, emphasizing the struggle to keep up with demands.

The quote captures the relentless hustle of farm life, where despite efforts, the chores and obligations can feel unmanageable. It reflects the theme of feeling burdened by expectations and the difficulty of balancing numerous demands in a rural setting.