In Joyce Carol Oates' novel "We Were the Mulvaneys," the concept of memory is explored as something that intentionally fades and becomes indistinct over time. This blurring allows individuals to summon the bravery to revisit painful experiences repeatedly, despite the emotional toll it may take on them. It suggests that human resilience relies on a fragmented recollection of the past.

The notion underscores a paradox of human behavior: the ability to forget the full impact of past traumas enables people to continue seeking connection and experience, even if it leads to personal suffering. Memory's imperfection is thus portrayed as both a burden and a blessing, pushing individuals to confront their challenges anew, fostering a cycle of hope and heartbreak.