The concluding of a war is often a complicated and challenging process. Like a large fire, the consequences of war are extensive, leaving behind ashes that symbolize the lingering impacts on society and individuals. These effects do not dissipate quickly; rather, they settle gradually, highlighting the enduring scars of conflict and the difficulty of achieving true peace.
Margaret Atwood's quote from "The Blind Assassin" emphasizes that while the overt fighting may cease, the repercussions continue to affect lives for a long time. The metaphor of ashes drifting away illustrates how the remnants of war linger in various forms, reminding us that healing and rebuilding take considerable time and effort beyond the immediate cessation of hostilities.