In William Faulkner's "Light in August," the quote "Knowing not grieving remembers a thousand savage and lonely streets" captures the deep emotional impact of loss and the complexity of memory. The phrase suggests that understanding pain without the act of grieving can evoke vivid memories of difficult and isolated experiences, highlighting the struggle between knowledge and emotional expression.

This reflection connects to the broader themes in Faulkner's work, where characters often navigate through challenging environments and their own internal battles. The imagery of "savage and lonely streets" evokes a sense of desolation, emphasizing the connection between personal grief and the external world, illustrating the pervasive influence of their surroundings on their emotional state.