In her memoir, Amy Tan discusses the inescapable nature of memory, emphasizing that individuals cannot selectively erase painful experiences. She notes that memories, especially negative ones, cling persistently and are often vividly detailed. This permanence makes it difficult for people to move past their most painful moments, as memories can resurface with uncanny ease, triggered by similar experiences.

Tan reflects on how memory serves as both a faithful record and a source of distress. Her words highlight the complexity of human remembrance, where some moments are etched into our minds, vividly reminding us of past traumas. This inherent persistence of memory shapes our experiences and emotional responses, influencing how we navigate the present and anticipate the future.