This quote from Sue Grafton's I is for Innocent succinctly captures a cynical, yet poignant observation about human nature and society. It reflects a pervasive skepticism that many share when confronted with the outcomes of human actions, particularly those that fall short of moral or ethical expectations. The phrase "hard to have faith in your fellow man" acknowledges an inherent difficulty in trusting others, especially when their deeds — their "handiwork" — reveal flaws, mistakes, or even malevolence.

Upon reflection, this notion resonates deeply with the experience of witnessing the complexities of the world around us. People are capable of incredible kindness and genius, yet often we are exposed to their failures, injustices, and cruelties, which can be disheartening. This dichotomy challenges our optimism and forces a confrontation with the less admirable aspects of humanity.

Moreover, the quote subtly critiques how observable actions and their tangible effects shape our perceptions of others. It suggests that faith or trust is fundamentally linked to the quality and nature of what people produce — not just physical creations, but ideas, decisions, and behaviors. When these are flawed or harmful, our confidence in people is understandably shaken, making genuine faith in humanity a difficult endeavor.

Yet, this challenge might serve as motivation rather than despair. Recognizing the imperfections in humanity's handiwork could inspire us to strive for better outcomes and nurture trust with those who endeavor positively. It is a reminder that while skepticism is natural, so too is the effort to reconstruct faith through awareness and encouragement of better deeds.