In her novel "The Lacuna," Barbara Kingsolver illustrates how memories can be complex and multifaceted. Instead of fading and becoming more gentle over time, certain memories can become sharper and more painful, akin to the edges of a knife. This perspective highlights the enduring nature of some past experiences, suggesting that time does not always heal all wounds.

Kingsolver's insight encourages readers to reflect on their own memories and how they affect their present lives. The idea that memories can retain their intensity or even become more acute emphasizes the intricate relationship between the past and one's emotional state, reminding us that some experiences linger long after they occur.