In Wallace Stegner's "Angle of Repose," the quote "It's easier to die than to move ... at least for the Other Side you don't need trunks" reflects on the complexities and burdens of life changes. The statement suggests that the act of moving entails significant emotional and physical effort, making it seem more daunting than confronting death. It emphasizes the weight of our attachments, possessions, and the upheaval that comes with leaving behind familiar spaces.

This idea highlights how challenging transitions can be, as they often require us to confront our past and make difficult choices. The metaphor of needing "trunks" implies that physical relocation involves packing up not only material belongings but also memories and experiences. Stegner’s narrative explores these themes of struggle and adaptation, questioning what it truly means to let go and move forward in life.