In "Light in August," William Faulkner explores the theme of memory as a powerful force that influences identity and perception. The quote "Memory believes before knowing remembers" suggests that our recollections and feelings often shape our understanding of the present, even before we have concrete knowledge. This highlights how our past experiences color our actions and reactions in the present moment, reflecting the complex relationship between memory and knowledge.

Through his characters, Faulkner demonstrates how the past lurks in the minds of individuals, affecting their choices and interactions. Memory acts not just as a repository of events but as a lens through which we view the world, underscoring the notion that our history can dictate our present and future. The interplay between memory and self-awareness is a central theme in Faulkner's work, illustrating that understanding oneself often begins with reconciling with one’s past.